Rekha Gupta, a prominent member of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has been sworn in as the Chief Minister of Delhi. She becomes the fourth woman to hold this prestigious position in the city's history. Gupta's appointment follows a significant victory for the BJP, which secured 48 seats in the 70-member Delhi assembly, marking their first majority in 27 years. This triumph has led to the ousting of Arvind Kejriwal from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), who managed to secure only 22 seats.
Gupta, a law graduate who began her political journey in student politics within Delhi, was selected by party members late Wednesday. Known for her dedication to women's and children's welfare, she has been a strong advocate for supporting impoverished female students. As part of her agenda, Gupta has pledged to provide free health services, free electricity, and a monthly stipend of more than 2,500 rupees ($29) to economically disadvantaged women in Delhi.
“To work with full honesty, integrity, and dedication for the welfare, empowerment, and overall development of every citizen of Delhi,” stated Rekha Gupta during her swearing-in ceremony.
The BJP's win in Delhi is a significant boost for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who, despite winning a third term last year, lost his parliamentary majority. The BJP's success in Delhi's high-stakes polls reflects a strategic victory for the party at a critical time.
“I will faithfully and impartially discharge the duties of the office,” Gupta assured as she assumed her new role.
However, Gupta faces substantial challenges as she takes office. Among these are the pervasive issues of poverty and pollution in Delhi. The city is regularly ranked as the most polluted in the world, presenting a formidable task for any leader aiming to improve living conditions. Addressing these concerns will require comprehensive policy initiatives and collaboration at various levels of government.
