Delhi: Rekha Gupta has made history by becoming the first woman Chief Minister of Delhi from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), marking the party’s return to power in the national capital after 26 years. A seasoned politician, grassroots leader, and a strong advocate for women’s empowerment, Gupta’s rise to the top post signifies a new era of leadership in Delhi.
Rekha Gupta was born and raised in Delhi in a middle-class family with strong academic and cultural values. She pursued her higher education in political science and public administration, which laid the foundation for her deep understanding of governance and policymaking.
Political Career
Rekha Gupta’s political journey began with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the student wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). She gradually rose through the ranks of the BJP, serving in various leadership roles, including:
- Delhi BJP Mahila Morcha President – Advocated for women’s rights and led key campaigns for gender equality and social welfare.
- Councillor, North Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) – Focused on urban development, sanitation, and public health.
- General Secretary, Delhi BJP – Played a crucial role in the party’s organizational expansion and electoral strategy.
Her experience in grassroots politics and governance made her a formidable candidate for the Chief Minister’s position.
Rise to Chief Ministership
Rekha Gupta contested the 2025 Delhi Assembly Elections from the Shalimar Bagh constituency, securing a decisive victory. Under her leadership, the BJP secured 48 out of 70 seats, unseating the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and ending its decade-long rule. Her name was officially announced as the CM during the BJP Legislature Party meeting, with Parvesh Verma being named as her deputy.
Key Focus Areas as Chief Minister
As Delhi’s new Chief Minister, Rekha Gupta has promised a transparent, development-driven, and people-centric governance model. Some of her primary focus areas include:
✅ Women’s Empowerment – Launching financial aid schemes and safety initiatives for women.
✅ Urban Development – Strengthening Delhi’s infrastructure, roads, and water supply.
✅ Healthcare – Implementing Ayushman Bharat and improving public health services.
✅ Education – Providing free KG-to-PG education for underprivileged students.
✅ Pollution Control – Restoring the Yamuna and making Delhi cleaner and greener.
✅ Anti-Corruption Drive – Investigating previous government scams and ensuring transparent governance.
Public Image and Leadership Style
Rekha Gupta is known for her strong organizational skills, grassroots connect, and no-nonsense approach to governance. She has built a reputation as a people’s leader, actively engaging with citizens and addressing their concerns. Her leadership is expected to bring a blend of decisive action and developmental policies to Delhi.
Challenges Ahead
As she steps into the CM’s office, Rekha Gupta faces significant challenges, including:
- Managing Delhi’s pollution crisis
- Improving public transport and traffic congestion
- Strengthening law and order
- Delivering on BJP’s 16-point manifesto
With Rekha Gupta at the helm, Delhi is set for a new political chapter. As the first woman CM of Delhi under BJP rule, her tenure will be closely watched for its impact on governance, development, and public welfare in the national capital.
Rekha Gupta Joins the League of Women Chief Ministers in India
With her swearing-in as the first woman Chief Minister of Delhi from the BJP, Rekha Gupta has joined the distinguished league of women leaders who have helmed Indian states. Her appointment marks a significant moment in Indian politics, reinforcing the growing influence of women in leadership roles across the country.
Women Chief Ministers in Indian History
Over the decades, several women have led Indian states, making their mark in governance and policy-making. Here are some notable names in the league of women Chief Ministers:
Current Women Chief Ministers (2025)
- Mamata Banerjee (West Bengal) – The longest-serving woman CM in India, she has been leading Bengal since 2011. Known for her grassroots connect, she has played a key role in shaping state policies.
- Rekha Gupta (Delhi) – The latest addition to this elite group, she leads Delhi after BJP’s massive win in 2025.
- Annapurna Devi (Jharkhand) – A BJP leader who took charge in Jharkhand, focusing on tribal welfare and rural development.
Legendary Women CMs of India
- Sucheta Kripalani (Uttar Pradesh, 1963-1967) – India’s first woman CM, she played a crucial role in post-independence governance.
- Indira Gandhi (Delhi, 1959-1960) – Before becoming India’s first woman Prime Minister, she briefly led Delhi as CM.
- Jayalalithaa (Tamil Nadu, multiple terms between 1991-2016) – A towering figure in Tamil Nadu’s politics, known for welfare schemes and strong governance.
- Sheila Dikshit (Delhi, 1998-2013) – The longest-serving CM of Delhi, credited with modernizing infrastructure in the capital.
- Mayawati (Uttar Pradesh, multiple terms) – A strong Dalit leader who reshaped UP politics.
- Vasundhara Raje (Rajasthan, multiple terms) – BJP’s first woman CM in Rajasthan, known for economic and social reforms.
- Sushma Swaraj (Delhi, 1998) – Briefly served as CM before moving on to national politics.
The Significance of Rekha Gupta’s Appointment
Rekha Gupta’s rise to the Chief Ministerial post is a milestone for women’s leadership in BJP and Indian politics. As Delhi’s first woman CM in over a decade, her tenure will be crucial in shaping governance, urban development, and policy reforms.
Her leadership reflects the changing political landscape, where more women are taking charge of crucial positions in governance, setting an example for future generations. As she takes on the responsibility of running the capital, all eyes will be on how she navigates the challenges and delivers on her promises.
