New Delhi: Delhi’s political landscape saw a major shift as Rekha Gupta was sworn in as a Member of the Legislative Assembly, marking the beginning of a new government after BJP win in assembly elections after 20 years. 

The first session of the 8th legislative assembly began with BJP MLA Arvinder Singh Lovely taking the oath as Protem Speaker at Raj Niwas, administered by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. The session will continue with the election of the Speaker at 2 PM.

BJP outlines its vision for Delhi

Delhi Minister Parvesh Verma reassured the public that the new government would meet their expectations, urging cooperation from the Opposition for the state’s development.

"I want to say to the people of Delhi that our government will meet your expectations. We will fulfil all the poll promises we made. I also want the cooperation of the Opposition party. We want good laws to be formed to take Delhi to newer heights. I don’t claim that we will make Delhi like Paris or London, but we will ensure we develop Delhi. This is our government's resolution," Verma stated.

Echoing a similar sentiment, Delhi Minister Kapil Mishra called the day “historic,” taking a dig at the previous AAP-led administration.

"The people who cheated Delhi have understood that the real owner is only the public. Corruption has a limited time, and after that, it is over. Under the leadership of CM Rekha Gupta, such a government has come to Delhi that will work for the people," Mishra asserted.

AAP takes opposition role for the first time

With the BJP securing 48 out of 70 seats, the AAP, which previously dominated Delhi’s assembly for a decade, finds itself in the Opposition. Former CM Atishi has been appointed as the Leader of Opposition (LoP), with BJP leaders already taking jabs at her role.

"My best wishes are with her (AAP’s Atishi) on becoming Leader of Opposition in the Delhi Assembly. My sympathies have been with her as people from her own party used to refer to her as ‘temporary CM’," BJP MLA Arvinder Singh Lovely remarked.

According to the Delhi Assembly bulletin, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena will address the assembly on February 25, followed by the tabling of Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reports. The session will continue with discussions on the motion of thanks and the election of the Deputy Speaker on February 26.