New Delhi – In a historic political shift, Rekha Gupta has been elected as the new Chief Minister of Delhi, making her the fourth woman to hold this position in the city’s history. Gupta, a senior leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), secured victory in the recent Delhi Assembly elections from the Shalimar Bagh constituency, defeating Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) candidate Bandana Kumari by a margin of over 29,000 votes.
BJP’s Resurgence in Delhi
The BJP, which had been out of power in Delhi for 25 years, made a strong comeback in the 2025 elections, winning 48 out of 70 seats in the Delhi Assembly. Following this landslide victory, Gupta was chosen by the party leadership as the chief ministerial candidate due to her extensive experience and strong grassroots connections.
Who is Rekha Gupta?
Rekha Gupta’s political journey began during her student years when she was associated with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). She later served as the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) president. Her political career took off when she won the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) elections in 2007. Over the years, she has played a significant role in Delhi’s municipal governance, gaining a reputation for pro-development policies and efficient administration.
Gupta Meets LG, Prepares to Take Charge
Soon after her election, Gupta, accompanied by senior BJP leaders Parvesh Verma, Vijender Gupta, and other MLAs, met with Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena at Raj Niwas to formally stake her claim to form the government. Speaking to the media after the meeting, Gupta said,
“I am honored to be given this responsibility. My government will focus on development, women’s safety, and tackling pollution, which are Delhi’s most pressing issues. We will ensure transparency and accountability in governance.”
Challenges Ahead for the New CM
Gupta takes charge at a crucial time when Delhi faces challenges such as rising pollution levels, urban congestion, and water shortages. Additionally, she will have to navigate the complexities of centre-state relations, especially concerning Delhi’s governance structure and its relationship with the Lieutenant Governor.
Public Reactions and Political Response
Her appointment has garnered mixed reactions. BJP supporters have hailed it as a new beginning for Delhi, while the opposition AAP and Congress have expressed concerns over BJP’s policies. AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal stated,
“The people of Delhi will judge this government based on its actions. We hope that they prioritize the welfare of the common man.”
Looking Ahead
With a strong electoral mandate and a clear roadmap, Rekha Gupta’s leadership will determine the future of Delhi’s governance. Her success will depend on how effectively she delivers on her promises and handles the political challenges ahead.
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