Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta was sworn-in as Delhi’s chief minister in a grand ceremony at Ramlila Maidan on February 20, 2025. Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena administered the oath of office to Gupta and her council of ministers, including prominent leaders such as Parvesh Sahib Singh, Ashish Sood, and Kapil Mishra. The event attracted top BJP officials, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, underscoring the significance of Gupta's appointment.
Gupta, the fourth woman to hold the position of Delhi’s chief minister, was elected from the Shalimar Bagh constituency. Her extensive experience includes serving as councillor with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and as general secretary of the BJP Mahila Morcha. Gupta's political career took off with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), leading her to become President of the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) during 1996-97.
The choice of Gupta as chief minister is seen as part of the BJP's strategy to showcase women’s leadership, as she is now the only woman chief minister across BJP-led states. Among the attendees at her swearing-in were notable political figures like Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma and the Chief Ministers of Maharashtra, Goa, and Andhra Pradesh.
After the ceremony, Gupta expressed her gratitude to the BJP leadership, noting her election as both a miracle and the beginning of a new chapter for women in politics. Stressing her commitment to accountability, she stated, “It’s a huge responsibility. I thank PM Modi and the BJP high command for their faith in me.” Gupta's priorities include fulfilling all party commitments as she aims to unify the efforts of all 48 MLAs, positioning them as “team Modi.”
On her second day of office, Gupta interacted with residents outside her residence, showing her approachability. Many residents gathered to greet their new chief minister, reflecting public enthusiasm for her leadership. Meanwhile, Savita Roy, the principal of Gupta's alma mater, Daulat Ram College, praised her, stating, “I have fond memories of her. She always fulfills the promises she makes. My blessings are with her.” This sentiment echoes the expectations set for Gupta's tenure.
Gupta also met with PM Modi at his residence shortly after taking office, where they discussed Delhi's future development. She led her own meeting on the Mahila Samman Yojana—an initiative aimed at benefiting women—and convened discussions with the Public Works Department (PWD) to tackle infrastructure issues affecting the city. Addressing concerns about damaged and dug-up roads, Gupta issued directives for immediate action, underscoring her proactive approach to governance.
Prior to her tenure as chief minister, Gupta faced challenges, including losing the mayoral election to AAP's Shelly Oberoi in 2023. Nonetheless, her relatively low profile did not hinder her rise within the party, leading to speculation about her potential candidacy following the BJP's electoral success in the latest assembly elections. Gupta's swearing-in came at the conclusion of the BJP's 27-year wait for power within Delhi, marking the party's expectation to reshape its narrative and presence in the region.
The political weight of Gupta’s office aligns with the BJP's broader objective to reinforce its governance model, characterized by promises of transparency and accountability. Her supporters within the party have pointed out her background as not only academically accomplished but also deeply rooted within community issues. Men, like her former professors, stressed her leadership qualities even during her student days at university.
Despite the challenges she may face, Gupta’s commitment appears clear. She remarked, “I want to tell the students from Delhi University and especially from Daulat Ram College, only Rekha Gupta has not become the CM; all of you have become the CM.” This statement reflects her semantic approach to governance: one where she includes the voices of her constituents and emphasizes collective responsibility.
Overall, Gupta's swearing-in and immediate actions signal not just the BJP’s intent to stabilize its rule but also indicate the importance of women's participation in politics, showcasing the potential for new leadership paradigms within the party. The early signs of her administration showcase eagerness to engage with the public and respond to pressing issues affecting Delhi, setting the stage for the administrative paths she will pave throughout her tenure.