Delhi CM Rekha Gupta is guest at Adda today
June 26, 2025 – New Delhi:
Delhi’s Chief Minister Rekha Gupta shared her vision for the city at Express Adda, a signature event by The Indian Express. Her participation offered a direct insight into her style of governance just four months after taking office.
This session marked her first public conversation in such a format. Gupta used the platform to highlight her priorities and approach to tackling Delhi’s challenges.
From Student Politics to Delhi’s Top Office
Rekha Gupta’s political journey began with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP). Her early years saw her actively working within student unions and later in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD). Her dedication helped her rise through the BJP ranks steadily.
In February 2025, Gupta became Delhi’s Chief Minister after the BJP won the assembly elections. Her appointment ended AAP’s 11-year rule. She is now Delhi’s fourth female CM, following in the footsteps of leaders like Sheila Dikshit and Sushma Swaraj.
Pushing for Bureaucratic Efficiency
During the Adda, Gupta addressed the pressing need for faster governance.
“We must cut delays and improve delivery. People should not suffer because of slow paperwork,” she said.
Her administration has already removed the Delhi Police NOC requirement for seven types of businesses. This move simplified the licensing process for nearly 25,000 establishments. Over 1.5 million workers stand to benefit from this change.
She emphasized direct accountability from bureaucrats. Gupta wants files cleared on time and government departments to act faster.
Empowering Delhi’s Traders
The CM also spoke about Delhi’s small and medium business owners.
“Our traders keep this city running. They need protection, ease of doing business, and social benefits,” she said.
To support them, Gupta launched the Delhi Traders’ Welfare Board. This new body will cover more than 8 lakh traders. It will offer relief during disasters, social security, and simplify compliance norms.
This initiative positions Gupta as a business-friendly leader and shows her focus on local economies.
Learning from the Past
Gupta also reflected on India’s democratic journey. On June 25, she joined Union ministers at an event marking the 50th anniversary of the Emergency.
At the Adda, she said,
“Delhi must remember its past so we can protect its democratic future.”
She criticized the constitutional violations of that period and emphasized transparency in governance. Her statements align with the BJP’s broader narrative but also reflect her commitment to openness in government.
Bringing a New Kind of Leadership
When asked about her identity as a woman leader, Gupta replied with humility:
“I lead not as a woman, but as a servant of the people. Still, I know what my position means for young girls.”
She is the first woman CM in over two decades. Her leadership style is a mix of firmness and empathy. She combines political experience with grassroots awareness, which makes her stand out.
What to Expect Next
Gupta’s government faces several challenges ahead. These include improving air quality, upgrading infrastructure, resolving water issues, and reforming education.
But at Express Adda, she showed clarity and confidence. She promised better coordination between departments and faster execution of public works. Her focus remains on efficient governance and citizen-first policies.
Final Thoughts
Rekha Gupta’s appearance at Express Adda wasn’t just symbolic—it was strategic. She used the platform to define her approach: fast, focused, and responsive.
Her recent decisions show she is not afraid to make tough calls. Whether removing bureaucratic hurdles or launching new welfare boards, Gupta is clearly setting a new tone for Delhi politics.
Her leadership may still be new, but it already shows strong intent. The coming months will test her plans. But if this Adda is any indication, Delhi’s new CM is ready to deliver.
