NEW DELHI:A member of India’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was sworn in as Delhi’s chief minister on Thursday following a landslide election victory, marking the first time in decades that the party has gained control of the capital’s government.
Rekha Gupta, 50, becomes the fourth woman to hold the position in the vast metropolis of over 30 million residents. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP governs at the national level, it had not held power in Delhi’s local legislature since 1998.
Gupta, a law graduate with a background in student politics, was chosen for the role by party members late Wednesday. “I pledge to serve diligently and impartially in fulfilling my responsibilities,” she declared during her swearing-in ceremony, addressing an enthusiastic crowd of supporters.
Prime Minister Modi, who attended the event, praised Gupta’s political journey in a post on X, highlighting her rise from grassroots activism to chief minister. “I am confident she will dedicate herself to Delhi’s development with full commitment,” he stated.
The election results ended the tenure of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal, who had governed Delhi for most of the past decade and was a vocal critic of Modi. Kejriwal, known for his anti-corruption stance, faced legal troubles last year, spending months in jail over alleged financial misconduct.
Gupta’s administration faces significant challenges, including Delhi’s severe air pollution crisis, which blankets the city in hazardous smog during the winter months. However, addressing environmental concerns was not a major focus of the election campaigns by any of the key parties.
