Goa AAP calls for unity among anti-BJP parties after Delhi defeat

Panaji: AAP state president Amit Palekar on Saturday said the “unexpected” outcome of the Delhi election is a lesson for anti-BJP parties ahead of the 2027 assembly elections in Goa. He said Congress failed to learn that the splitting of votes and non-cooperation are the chief reasons for BJP’s triumph in the hustings.

Palekar revealed deep concerns over the fragmented opposition in Goa. He said AAP anticipated winning more than 40 seats. Congress continued to get drubbed in Delhi as it failed to open its account in the national capital.

“This result was unexpected,” Palekar said. Asked about the reasons for AAP’s defeat in Delhi, Palekar blamed political undercurrents and Congress’ shrill campaign against AAP. Both parties are members of the INDIA bloc.

Palekar also cited anti-incumbency sentiments and the sidelining of underperforming MLAs — many of whom subsequently aligned with BJP — as significant elements that shaped the result.

“Congress is looking at AAP as its biggest enemy,” he said. “They actually fought this election alongside BJP.”

Looking ahead to the 2027 assembly elections in Goa, Palekar stressed the urgency of consolidating the anti-BJP vote. “We have to fight the coming elections together,” he said. It is about uniting all anti-BJP forces to represent the 67% of voters who oppose the incumbent party. He warned that without a unified strategy, the split in votes would enable BJP to continue winning on narrow majorities rather than a clear mandate of popular support.

“We have to learn lessons from AAP’s defeat in Delhi. The central and state leadership have to learn that splitting votes makes BJP win. Otherwise, we will see split of votes in 2027 and BJP will again form the govt,” said Palekar.