Team Clarion
NEW DELHI — The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) won the Delhi Assembly election with a thumping majority but senior BJP leader and hate-monger Ramesh Bidhuri faced a resounding defeat in the Kalkaji constituency against outgoing chief minister Atishi from AAP.
Bidhuri, known for his history of divisive rhetoric and a campaign marred by controversial statements, lost by a margin of over 3,500 votes. Initially leading the race by more than 3,000 votes on Saturday afternoon, his lead gradually diminished as Atishi gained momentum, ultimately securing the seat.
Atishi, who took over as Delhi’s Chief Minister from Arvind Kejriwal in September 2024 following his bail in the liquor policy case, ran her campaign on a platform emphasising development, education, and civic improvements.
Bidhuri’s entry into the Kalkaji constituency came after three consecutive terms as the MLA from Tughlakabad and a two-year tenure as the Member of Parliament for South Delhi. However, his campaign drew widespread criticism due to inflammatory remarks directed at his opponents.
Bidhuri also faced backlash for a sexist comment about Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, claiming that, if elected, he would make roads as smooth as “Priyanka Gandhi’s cheeks.” The Congress party quickly condemned the statement, with spokesperson Supriya Shrinate criticising it as reflective of BJP’s “anti-woman” mindset and lack of respect for female politicians.
Bidhuri’s history of inflammatory remarks has been a subject of controversy before. In 2023, during a parliamentary session, he used Islamophobic slurs against Muslim Lok Sabha MP Danish Ali, referring to him with derogatory terms such as “Muslim terrorist” and “pimp.” The comments were widely condemned, further solidifying Bidhuri’s reputation as a divisive figure.
Atishi’s victory in Kalkaji signals a rejection of Bidhuri’s brand of politics and highlights voter preference for development-oriented leadership over inflammatory rhetoric.
