Delhi assembly polls: Alka Lamba to challenge Delhi CM Atishi Singh in Kalkaji seat

In a bold move signalling its determination to take the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) head-on in the upcoming Delhi assembly elections, the Congress has decided to field All India Mahila Congress chief Alka Lamba against Delhi chief minister Atishi Singh in the Kalkaji assembly segment, according to party insiders.

The high-profile contest is expected to be one of the most closely watched battles in the elections. Lamba, who started her political journey with NSUI (National Students' Union of India), has previously served as an MLA from the Chandni Chowk constituency during her tenure with AAP. Known for her vocal advocacy on women’s issues and aggressive politics, Lamba rejoined the Congress in 2019.

This announcement follows Congress’ earlier decision to field Sandeep Dikshit, son of late Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit, against AAP founder and former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi segment, further emphasising the party’s intent to take on AAP’s top leadership.

Sources revealed that the Congress is preparing to release its second list of 28 candidates shortly. Among the names expected are:

• Rajesh Lilothia from Seemapuri

• Farhad Suri from Jangpura

• Asim Ahmed from Matia Mahal

• Devendra Sahrawat from Bijwasan

The party had earlier released a list of 21 candidates, marking its renewed focus on reclaiming Delhi after years of AAP dominance.

The Delhi assembly elections, set to be held early next year, will decide the fate of the 70-member legislative body. The term of the current assembly expires on 23 February 2025, but the Election Commission of India has yet to announce the polling dates.

AAP, which swept the 2015 and 2020 elections with landslide victories, is seeking a third consecutive term. The party has already announced its candidates for all 70 seats, reaffirming its confidence in retaining power.

Atishi Singh, a key member of AAP, first won the Kalkaji seat in 2020, succeeding Avtar Singh, who held the seat in 2015. Atishi assumed the role of chief minister in September 2024 following Kejriwal’s resignation.

The Congress, which has struggled to regain its footing in Delhi politics since AAP’s rise, is banking on strong candidates like Lamba and Dikshit to rejuvenate its base.

Meanwhile, the BJP, which has yet to release its candidate list, faces the challenge of breaking its losing streak in Delhi.

Delhi watchers opine this election will not only determine the political future of AAP but also test whether Congress can reclaim its lost ground and whether BJP can make significant inroads in the national capital.