Key parties woo women with promises of cash handout in Delhi polls

Free bus rides, electricity and water create a powerful voting bloc in India's capital

20250203 AAP supporters

The Aam Aadmi Party has gained popularity among Delhi women by launching female-friendly policies that include free bus rides. (Photo by Getty Images)

KIRAN SHARMA

NEW DELHI -- Ahead of India's national capital elections on Wednesday, major political parties have been aggressively courting the city's female voters, promising cash transfers, increased pensions, free public transit rides and a slew of other inducements.

A city of over 20 million, Delhi is governed by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) which is eyeing a third consecutive term in office. While one polling outfit puts it in the lead, it is having to play defense as it contends with serious corruption charges.

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