Capital conundrum: Welfare promises versus infra push ahead of Delhi polls

Amid increasing poll promises ahead of Delhi elections, the spending choices of Congress and AAP regimes, and the fiscal challenges ahead for the next government

The political scenario in Delhi is often criticised for promoting “revdi culture”, which has become central to election promises across parties. This criticism stems from a perceived prioritisation of social welfare schemes over infrastructural development. In recent years, inadequacies in Delhi’s infrastructure have become increasingly evident, adding weight to these arguments.

 

A comparison between Sheila Dikshit government and the Aam Aadmi Party regime shows the differences not just in spending figures but in the underlying governance philosophy driving these choices.

 

During Dikshit’s tenure (2004–2013), Delhi saw a steady rise in revenue expenditure, which grew from just over Rs 5,000 crore