The initial trends from the ongoing vote count in the high-stakes Delhi Assembly elections indicate a neck-and-neck contest between the ruling AAP and the BJP, as predicted by the exit polls. The counting of votes began at 8 am, and while it's still in the early stages, all three parties have expressed confidence in their victory.

Two top AAP leaders accepted defeat as BJP surged ahead, leading in more than 40 seats. Congress, on the other hand, continues to trail with no early gains.

The race has been particularly tense for key AAP figures, with former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Deputy CM Manish Sisodia, and Atishi initially trailing in their respective constituencies. However, as the count progressed, both Sisodia and Kejriwal accepted defeat and Atishi won from Kalkaji.

AAP, led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, was aiming for a third consecutive term, while the BJP seeks to break AAP's stronghold and return to power after more than two decades of opposition rule in the National Capital.

Congress, which dominated Delhi for 15 consecutive years before losing its grip in the last two elections, has struggled to make any headway in the current race. The exit polls, which have shown Congress lagging, suggest that the party may fail to win any seats once again, continuing its downward trajectory in the capital.

The BJP's campaign, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focused on issues like the alleged pollution of the Yamuna River and the renovation of Kejriwal's official residence. Modi used terms such as "Aapda" (disaster) and "Sheesh Mahal" (palace) to criticise the Delhi Chief Minister.

In contrast, AAP's strategy centred around its performance in the education sector during its eleven-year rule in Delhi, with Kejriwal accusing the BJP of planning to "stop free education" if it regains power. AAP also emphasised its work in health, education, and infrastructure, arguing that the people of Delhi would continue to back them for their focus on welfare and governance.

Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, who held rallies during the campaign, targeted Kejriwal and senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia, accusing them of involvement in the Delhi excise policy "scam" case.

The polling for the 70-member Delhi Assembly was held on February 5, with a voter turnout of 60.54%. While the trends are still developing, both AAP and BJP are bracing for a tense final result.