Rekha Gupta was sworn in as Delhi's new Chief Minister on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at a ceremony held at Ramlila Maidan. This event marks a historic moment as Gupta becomes the fourth woman to hold Delhi's top post, following Sushma Swaraj, Sheila Dikshit, and Atishi. It also signifies the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) return to power in Delhi after 27 years.
The Oath-Taking Ceremony
The oath-taking ceremony was administered by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena at 12:35 pm. The event was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP President JP Nadda, and several Union ministers. Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers from BJP-led states were also invited.
In addition to political figures, the BJP extended invitations to auto-rickshaw drivers, slum dwellers, farmers, and gig workers. Around 50 celebrities and industrialists were also invited.
Security and Traffic Arrangements
Given the large gathering, Delhi Police implemented extensive security measures. More than 25,000 security personnel and over 15 companies of paramilitary forces were deployed to maintain order. The security setup included commandos, Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), SWAT units, and AI-powered facial recognition CCTV cameras. Snipers were also positioned on high-rise buildings.
Traffic restrictions were in effect from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM on major roads, including Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, and Ranjeet Singh Flyover. Commuters were advised to use public transport and avoid roadside parking.
Gupta's New Cabinet
Gupta will be joined by six ministers in her new cabinet. These include Parvesh Verma, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh.
A New Chapter for Delhi
Rekha Gupta's appointment as Chief Minister follows the BJP's victory in the Delhi elections, where the party won 48 of the 70 Assembly seats. This victory marks a significant comeback for the BJP, which had previously held only three seats in 2015 and eight in 2020.
Gupta has expressed her commitment to the development of Delhi, pledging to work with honesty and dedication.
"I want to thank PM Modi, BJP high command, and the people of Delhi for giving me this opportunity," she said. "After 27 years, a new chapter is beginning. It is a moment of pride for the women in the country. We have staked claim to form the government... each and every commitment of BJP, fulfilling it is the ultimate goal of my life".
Gupta's leadership comes at a critical time for Delhi, and her governance plans are keenly awaited as she steps into her role.
With inputs from agencies
Image Source: Multiple agencies
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