A Decade of Stagnation: Evaluating 10 Years of the Delhi Government

The Arvind Kejriwal-led Delhi government came to power in 2015 with a landslide victory, riding on the wave of promises of change, transparency, and development. However, as the government approaches a decade in power, a critical evaluation of its track record reveals significant gaps between promises and performance. Despite its grand narrative of governance, the Kejriwal government has struggled to address some of Delhi's most pressing issues

Infrastructure: A Story of Missed Opportunities

Delhi’s infrastructure remains in a state of stagnation. The government’s promises to build world-class infrastructure have largely fallen flat. Basic amenities such as well-maintained roads, reliable water supply, and robust power systems continue to be inconsistent across the city. While the government often touts its investments in mohalla clinics and education reforms, major infrastructure development projects have taken a backseat. Public housing, urban mobility, and large-scale urban planning initiatives seem to have been overshadowed by politically expedient projects.

Economic Growth and Business Climate: An Overlooked Priority

Delhi, as the capital of India, should ideally be a hub for businesses and startups. However, the current government’s policies have not created a conducive environment for economic growth. Business owners and entrepreneurs frequently cite red tape, inconsistent policies, and lack of incentives as major barriers. The city’s potential to emerge as a global economic powerhouse has been underutilized, leaving businesses frustrated and investments flowing elsewhere.

Pollution Crisis: The Annual Catastrophe

The government’s failure to address Delhi’s air pollution crisis is perhaps its most glaring shortcoming. Every winter, the city’s air quality deteriorates to hazardous levels, posing severe health risks to residents. Despite repeated promises and the introduction of measures like the odd-even vehicle rule, no sustainable, long-term plan has been implemented to combat the crisis. The blame game—between the Delhi government, neighboring states, and the central government—has been a recurring theme, with little accountability or tangible progress.

Degrading Health and Education Systems: Myths vs. Reality

While the government’s flagship mohalla clinics and education reforms are widely publicized, they fail to stand up to scrutiny. Reports suggest that mohalla clinics often face staffing shortages, inadequate equipment, and operational inefficiencies. Similarly, the much-celebrated education model has been criticized for prioritizing public relations over substance. Several schools lack basic facilities, and the student-to-teacher ratio remains alarmingly high. These initiatives, while promising on paper, fall short in addressing systemic challenges.

Transportation Woes: A City on Pause

Public transportation, a backbone of any metropolitan city, has seen little improvement in Delhi. The once-ambitious plans to expand the city’s bus fleet and modernize its transportation infrastructure have not materialized. The Delhi Metro, which was once a model of excellence, faces overcrowding and operational challenges due to insufficient planning for its growing ridership. The lack of focus on last-mile connectivity further compounds the problem, making daily commutes a nightmare for residents.

Accountability: A Governance Model of Deflection

One of the most contentious aspects of the Kejriwal government’s tenure has been its frequent deflection of responsibility. Instead of owning up to failures and taking corrective measures, the administration has often resorted to blaming the Lieutenant Governor, the Prime Minister, or the Union Home Minister for its shortcomings. This pattern of avoiding accountability has eroded public trust and raised questions about the government’s commitment to delivering on its promises.

As the Kejriwal government marks its decade in power, the promises of 2015 remain largely unfulfilled. While there have been pockets of progress, the larger picture is one of missed opportunities, policy missteps, and unaddressed challenges. From infrastructure and pollution to health, education, and accountability, the government’s performance has left much to be desired. The people of Delhi, who once placed their faith in a promise of transformational governance, continue to wait for a city that lives up to its potential.