Rekha Gupta: Delhi’s New Chief Minister

In a historic political shift, Rekha Gupta has been appointed as the Chief Minister of Delhi, marking the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) return to power in the national capital after 27 years. Gupta, a first-time Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Shalimar Bagh, brings a wealth of political experience and a commitment to public service to her new role.

Early Life and Education

Born on July 19, 1974, Rekha Gupta pursued her higher education at Delhi University, where she earned her degree. Her academic background laid a strong foundation for her subsequent political career.

Political Journey

Student Politics and Early Involvement

Gupta’s political journey began during her time at Delhi University. She actively participated in student politics and served as the President of the Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) from 1996 to 1997. Her leadership during this period showcased her dedication to addressing student issues and advocating for their rights.

Municipal Leadership

Before ascending to the role of Chief Minister, Gupta held significant positions in municipal governance. She was elected as a councillor in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) multiple times, representing the Uttari Pitampura (Ward 54) in 2007 and North Pitampura (Ward 54) in 2012. Her peers recognized her leadership abilities, leading to her tenure as the Mayor of the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC). In 2022, the BJP nominated her as its mayoral candidate against AAP’s Shelly Oberoi, underscoring her prominence within the party.

Rise in State Politics

In the 2025 Delhi Legislative Assembly elections, Gupta contested from the Shalimar Bagh constituency. She achieved a decisive victory over AAP’s Bandana Kumari by a margin of 29,595 votes, ending AAP’s decade-long dominance in the area. Her success in these elections was a testament to her grassroots connection and effective campaign strategy.

Historic Appointment as Chief Minister

On February 19, 2025, during the BJP’s legislature party meeting attended by senior leaders Ravi Shankar Prasad and Om Prakash Dhankhar, Rekha Gupta was officially named the Chief Minister of Delhi. Her appointment is particularly noteworthy as she becomes the fourth woman to hold this esteemed position in Delhi’s history. Celebrations erupted outside her residence following the announcement, reflecting the enthusiasm and support from her constituents and party members.

Vision for Delhi

As she steps into her role as Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta is expected to focus on several key areas:

• Infrastructure Development: Enhancing Delhi’s urban infrastructure to meet the needs of its growing population.
• Women’s Safety and Empowerment: Implementing policies aimed at ensuring the safety and empowerment of women in the city.
• Environmental Sustainability: Addressing pressing environmental issues, including pollution control and sustainable urban planning.
• Transparent Governance: Promoting transparency and accountability within the government to rebuild public trust.

Gupta’s extensive experience in both student and municipal politics positions her well to navigate the complexities of governing a dynamic metropolis like Delhi. Her leadership is anticipated to bring a renewed focus on development, inclusivity, and good governance.

For a visual overview of Rekha Gupta’s journey and her new role as Delhi’s Chief Minister, you can watch the following video: