Rajnagar Extension | May 17, 2025 : In what is emerging as a classic case of post-election power dynamics, a prominent society in Rajnagar Extension is witnessing a sharp political rift following the recently concluded Apartment Owners Association (AOA) elections. The elections have concluded, but instead of bringing clarity, they appear to have left the society in a state of functional pause. While no visible civic breakdown has occurred, the dissonance between the two elected panels has created an environment of uncertainty, affecting governance, communication, and the overall community atmosphere.
The election results were fragmented. One panel secured a clear majority by winning six out of ten AOA seats, while the other panel, despite winning fewer positions, claims moral strength by highlighting that its candidates secured the highest percentage of votes individually. This divergence in interpretation-majority versus mandate, has led to a lack of consensus on key administrative matters.
While both panels assert their commitment to the community’s well-being, the difference in how they view their legitimacy has slowed down collaborative decision-making. There are delays in forming subcommittees, ambiguity over leadership roles, and a lack of unified communication to residents. For those living in the society, this internal standstill feels less like a leadership transition and more like a holding pattern with no clear direction.
“Both sides seem to believe they represent the residents,” says one resident. “But we elected them to work together, not outdo each other. Meanwhile, the issues that matter to us—like planning the monsoon maintenance or deciding on vendor contracts.”
Though basic services remain unaffected for now, cleaning, security, water supply-the fear is that unresolved friction could soon translate into operational inefficiencies.
This isn’t a one-off scenario. Across Delhi-NCR, such situations are becoming increasingly common as high-rise societies evolve into mini-townships. The democratic nature of AOA elections often gives rise to multiple interest groups. While diversity of thought is essential, it also demands a higher level of maturity, collaboration, and institutional responsibility, qualities that can sometimes get lost in post-election dynamics.
Experts in community governance say that the real risk is not just internal politics, but the erosion of trust among residents. “When elected representatives focus more on positioning than performance, residents disengage. That leads to apathy, lower participation in society matters, and a general decline in community vibrancy,” notes a housing management consultant.
The residents of this Rajnagar Extension society, like many others across the region, want more than just election results- they want responsive leadership, consistent communication, and a commitment to shared goals.
As one resident summed it up, “We don’t care which panel wins. We care whether the water runs, the lights work, and the decisions get made. That’s what community living is supposed to be about.”
Unless the board finds a way to move forward with unity and purpose, this period of limbo may not just delay action-it may slowly unravel the sense of togetherness that is at the heart of every residential community.
