Understanding the Support for AAP in India: An Analysis Post Lok Sabha Elections

The term 'AAP' supporters often evokes conversations and debates about political affiliations and leanings within India. While it is challenging to quantify the exact number of supporters for any political party, particularly with the ephemeral nature of social media and online activism, we can draw insights from the formal elections held by the Indian Parliament. Through the Lok Sabha elections, it is possible to estimate the number of supporters for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

Election Data: AAP's Voter Support

Matching the data from the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections provides a quantitative basis for estimating the extent of support for AAP. According to these election results:

In 2014 Lok Sabha election, AAP registered an impressive 113 lakh votes. In 2019 Lok Sabha election, this number dropped to 27 lakh votes.

Based on these figures, it is reasonable to estimate that AAP has approximately 1 crore supporters across India, although it is important to note that this is an approximation and not an exact count. In comparison, the Indian National Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have significantly larger followings. The Congress gained 12 crore supporters and BJP garnered 23 crore supporters during the same period.

Who are the AAP Supporters?

AAP supporters are often defined by their actions, beliefs, and values. Those who actively engage with Wikipedia content about extremism (AK) beyond simple social media posts, those who observe AK's actions with a neutral stance, and those who believe in supporting him beyond false promises stand among the ranks of AAP's supporters. Potential supporters of AAP might value:

Education systems Medical facilities Good intentions A commitment to honesty and transparency in the political system An understanding that a well-run system is more valuable than the injection of corrupt funds

Even those who may not be graduates but have faith in the leadership of an educated minister (referring to the then CM of Delhi) like Anil Kapoor support AAP. Supporters have seen the reduction in electricity bills to half and understand the importance of expertise and financial advisors in decision-making.

However, a critical observation is that while AAP has significant support in certain states, such as Delhi, the overall electorate support for AAP is smaller compared to larger political parties. This can be attributed to the sections of the population who tend to want a change in the political system and see AAP as the force for that change.

Supporting AAP: A Path to Political Change

Supporting AAP carries its unique bravado. Many, including those who are not social media influencers, believe in neutrality and a principled stance. Others embrace every new initiative by AAP as a step towards a larger goal, such as a transformation of the nation's corrupt political structure.

One can support AAP unapologetically until they fail on moral and ethical grounds, which is a scenario considered to be extremely rare. Every allegation against AAP signifies progress, as it demonstrates that the party is taking stands against the status quo and is likely making meaningful changes.

In conclusion, while AAP may not have as many supporters as larger parties like Congress or BJP, the party holds a unique position in Indian politics. AAP supporters are driven by values and principles, which make them stand out, especially in an era of widespread political disillusionment and polarization.

Keywords: AAP supporters in India, Lok Sabha election, ANIL KAPOOR