The relationship between Congress and AAP has been complex. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, both parties contested separately in Delhi, with Congress President Rahul Gandhi stating that the Delhi Congress unit was unanimously against an alliance with AAP. He emphasized that while alliances were formed in other states, the decision in Delhi was to go solo.
However, by May 2024, the dynamics appeared to shift. Rahul Gandhi, during a public meeting in Delhi, highlighted a united front with AAP to counter the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He mentioned that both parties would collaborate to "save the Constitution" from perceived threats. Gandhi's statements underscored a commitment to work together, urging both Congress and AAP workers to ensure victory for their alliance on all seven Lok Sabha seats in Delhi.
As the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections approach, discussions about a Congress-AAP alliance have gained momentum. Sources suggest that seat-sharing talks might commence soon, with leaders from the Delhi Congress reportedly favoring such an alliance. Notably, AAP's National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal and party leader Sanjay Singh met with Nationalist Congress Party-SP (NCP-SP) chief Sharad Pawar, with Congress leaders also present, indicating possible collaborative efforts.
Despite these developments, there have been mixed signals. Rahul Gandhi recently canceled a planned event in Delhi where he was expected to launch the party’s campaign for the assembly elections. Sources indicate that the cancellation is linked to the possibility of an alliance between AAP and Congress, with the outcome hinging on AAP’s seat-sharing offer. If AAP proposes a substantial number of seats for Congress, the alliance could materialize.
Arvind Kejriwal, on the other hand, had earlier stated that there would be no alliance with Congress in the Delhi Assembly elections. Congress, too, had announced its decision to contest alone, with Delhi Pradesh Congress President Devender Yadav asserting, "We shall contest all 70 seats in Delhi."
The evolving dynamics between Congress and AAP are crucial, given their shared objective of countering the BJP's influence in Delhi. Both parties have previously emphasized the importance of unity to prevent the division of anti-BJP votes. In 2019, AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal expressed concerns that contesting separately might result in a split of anti-BJP votes, potentially benefiting the BJP.
Rahul Gandhi's campaign launch today is anticipated to address these complexities. His speech may provide insights into Congress's strategy in Delhi, particularly concerning its stance towards AAP. Political analysts and party workers alike are keen to understand whether Congress will adopt a confrontational approach towards AAP or adhere to a 'coalition dharma,' maintaining a cooperative stance in line with the broader objectives of the INDIA bloc.