New Delhi, Feb 19 – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has elected first-time MLA Rekha Gupta as the new Chief Minister of Delhi, marking the party’s return to power in the national capital after 27 years. Gupta, who represents Shalimar Bagh, will take the oath of office on Thursday at Ramlila Maidan in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and senior BJP leaders.
Gupta succeeds Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi, following BJP’s victory in the recent Delhi Assembly elections, where it secured 48 of the 70 seats. The decision to appoint Gupta was finalized at a meeting of the BJP legislative party on Wednesday.
The Delhi BJP confirmed her selection via an announcement on its X handle. “Hearty congratulations and best wishes to Mrs. Rekha Gupta ji on being elected the leader of the Delhi BJP Legislative Party. We have full faith that the state will progress under your leadership,” read a translated version of the post.
Political Background and Governance Experience
Gupta, a former mayor of the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC), has a long history in politics and administration. She began her political journey in 1992 with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and later became the president of the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) in 1996-97.
Elected as a councillor from North Pitampura in 2007, she focused on improving public amenities, including libraries, parks, and swimming pools. She was re-elected in 2012 and later headed the Women Welfare and Child Development Committee. She also launched the “Sumedha Yojana” to support economically weaker female students in pursuing higher education.
Formation of Cabinet
Gupta will lead a six-member cabinet with representation from key communities that backed BJP in the election, including Jats, Baniyas, Punjabis, and Dalits. Among those being considered for ministerial positions are Manjinder Sirsa, Ashish Sood, Pankaj Kumar Singh, Ravinder Singh Indraj, Kapil Mishra, and Pravesh Verma, sources said, according to NDTV.
Swearing-in Ceremony and Challenges Ahead
On Tuesday, Gupta met Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena before her formal appointment, flashing a victory sign as she left Raj Niwas. The swearing-in ceremony is expected to be attended by top BJP functionaries, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Her administration will face significant challenges, including governance reforms and civic infrastructure issues. Observers say her leadership will be under scrutiny as she takes charge of Delhi’s administration after a decade of AAP rule. Further details on her government’s policy priorities are expected after the swearing-in ceremony.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
