A Historic Moment for Delhi
The suspense is finally over. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has returned to power in Delhi after 27 years, with Rekha Gupta taking the oath as the new Chief Minister. The 50-year-old leader and former Delhi University Students’ Union president was sworn in at a grand ceremony at Ramlila Maidan on February 20. The event, attended by top BJP leaders and dignitaries, marked a significant political shift in the capital.
Unprecedented Security Measures
Given the scale of the event, authorities implemented stringent security measures. Over 25,000 police personnel and 15 paramilitary companies were deployed to ensure law and order. Additionally, snipers were stationed on high-rise buildings, and AI-based facial recognition CCTV cameras were set up to monitor key areas.
Special Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Ravindra Yadav confirmed that extensive preparations had been underway for two days prior to the event. “Delhi Commissioner of Police Sanjay Arora personally reviewed the preparations. We are confident of managing the event smoothly,” he stated.
To manage the expected influx of attendees and dignitaries, security forces established multiple barricades and emergency response teams. Only authorized personnel were permitted near the main venue, and a well-planned traffic strategy was put in place to minimize congestion.
Traffic Advisory and Public Arrangements
With an estimated 50,000 attendees, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, the Delhi Police issued an extensive traffic advisory. Several major roads, including BSZ Marg, JLN Marg, and Aruna Asif Ali Road, saw diversions and restrictions between 7 AM and 4 PM on February 20.
To accommodate the large gathering, around 1,000 buses were arranged for transportation. The event also featured first-aid kiosks, designated parking areas, and other public facilities to ensure a smooth experience for attendees.
BJP’s ‘Aam Aadmi’ Guest List
While the event underscored the BJP’s political strength, the party also made an effort to include common citizens in the celebrations. Slum dwellers, taxi drivers, and auto-rickshaw drivers—key voter groups in the recent elections—were invited. This move was seen as an acknowledgment of their support and a reinforcement of BJP’s outreach to the working class.
In addition to political figures, around 50 industrialists and celebrities were invited to the function. Former AAP Chief Ministers Arvind Kejriwal and Atishi were also extended invitations as per protocol.
The Grand Ceremony and Cultural Festivities
Before the official proceedings, a cultural program featuring music and entertainment set the tone for the event. The main stage hosted Prime Minister Modi, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, BJP’s top leadership, and the newly sworn-in Chief Minister and her Cabinet. Two additional stages accommodated Union Ministers, Chief Ministers from BJP-ruled states, and other dignitaries.
BJP’s Triumphant Return
The BJP’s victory in the February 5 Delhi Assembly elections ended the 27-year gap in its governance of the capital. The party secured 48 out of 70 seats, defeating the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which managed only 22 seats. The Congress party, for the third consecutive term, failed to win a single seat.
With Rekha Gupta at the helm, BJP’s return to power in Delhi signifies a new chapter in the city’s political landscape. The swearing-in ceremony not only celebrated this victory but also highlighted the party’s commitment to governance, security, and public inclusion.
The oath-taking ceremony of Delhi’s first BJP Chief Minister in nearly three decades was a grand affair, reflecting both political triumph and meticulous planning. As Rekha Gupta steps into office, the focus now shifts to governance and fulfilling the promises made to Delhiites during the election campaign. The coming years will determine how effectively the BJP translates its historic win into lasting change for the capital.
(With inputs from agencies)
