Delhi's New Chief Minister Rekha Gupta: A Surprise Pick by the BJP

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Rekha Gupta's appointment as Delhi's new Chief Minister has been viewed by many as a surprise pick by the BJP, which had other high-profile names on the shortlist, including two-time ex-Lok Sabha MP Parvesh Verma. However, sources have revealed that the BJP was looking for a woman Chief Minister to underline one of its core campaign platforms - women empowerment, and a Vaishya face, since the party's first three Chief Ministers were from the Punjabi, Jat, and Brahmin groups. Ms Gupta fit both criteria, making her the ideal candidate for the post. Her rise to the Chief Minister's post also underlines the BJP's practice of rewarding grassroots leaders for good performance, with Ms Gupta having previously worked with the party's youth wing and holding leadership positions.

Ms Gupta's background and experience make her a strong candidate for the post, with a history of working in campus politics, state organization, and municipal administration. She was also President of the Delhi University's Students Union, earning praise from her commanders for her organizational and leadership skills. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Ms Gupta on her appointment, saying that she has "risen from the grassroots" and will work for the development of the city "with full vigour". The BJP's decision to appoint Ms Gupta as Chief Minister is seen as a strategic move to promote women empowerment and Vaishya representation in the party, with gender and caste playing a significant role in the selection process.

The new government in Delhi is expected to focus on several key issues, including infrastructure development, air pollution, and water supply. The city's roads, drains, and sewage systems are in a state of disrepair, with pothole-ridden roads and inadequate drainage systems causing problems for residents. The BJP has promised to tackle these issues, with a focus on pre-monsoon preparations to prevent flooding. Air pollution is another major concern, with Delhi consistently ranking among the world's most polluted cities. The new government is expected to take coordinated action to address this issue, with a focus on policy changes and emission-based approaches.

The BJP's manifesto promises include continuing existing welfare schemes related to free water and electricity, as well as introducing new benefits such as a monthly financial assistance of ₹2,500 to poor women. The party has also promised to provide LPG cylinders for ₹500 to poor women and offer free cylinders on Holi and Deepawali. Implementing these welfare schemes will be a challenge, especially given Delhi's fiscal constraints. The new administration must also begin preparations for the annual budget, which is typically presented in March. The Chief Secretary has already asked all departments in the Delhi government to prepare a 100-day action plan, with a focus on key initiatives such as the Ayushman Bharat Yojana.

In conclusion, Rekha Gupta's appointment as Delhi's new Chief Minister marks a significant shift in the BJP's approach to women empowerment and Vaishya representation. With a strong background in grassroots leadership and organizational skills, Ms Gupta is well-equipped to tackle the key issues facing the city, including infrastructure development, air pollution, and water supply. The new government's focus on policy changes and emission-based approaches is expected to have a positive impact on the city's development, with a focus on improving the lives of residents and promoting sustainable growth. The next few months will be crucial in determining whether the new government can deliver on its promises, with residents and stakeholders eagerly awaiting the implementation of key initiatives and welfare schemes.