NEW DELHI: A political showdown erupted on the first day of Delhi’s new BJP-led government as Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and former Chief Minister Atishi engaged in a heated debate over the BJP’s pre-election promise of providing ₹2500 per month to women in Delhi.
Atishi accused the BJP of breaking its commitment, stating that Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta had repeatedly assured that the scheme would be approved in the first cabinet meeting.
“Today, the BJP government held its first cabinet meeting, but there was no mention of the ₹2500 scheme. The women of Delhi were waiting for this announcement, yet the BJP has already started breaking its promises,” she said.
In a video message, Atishi said, “Today, Delhi’s newly appointed Chief Minister Rekha Gupta took the oath along with her cabinet. The first cabinet meeting was scheduled for 7 PM. The women of Delhi were eagerly waiting for the approval of the ₹2500 scheme, but it did not happen.”
She pointed out that CM Rekha Gupta had reaffirmed the BJP’s commitment to the scheme just hours before the meeting. “This morning, Rekha Gupta stated that the ₹2500 per month scheme would be passed. Yet, despite all the promises by PM Modi, Amit Shah, and the BJP, the scheme has not been approved,” Atishi said.
Questioning the BJP leadership, Atishi asked, “Why was this scheme not approved? The BJP government has already begun deceiving the people of Delhi from day one.”
She further expressed disappointment in CM Rekha Gupta, stating, “It is truly disheartening that a woman Chief Minister has broken a promise made to the women of Delhi immediately after assuming office.”
Hitting back, CM Rekha Gupta dismissed Atishi’s allegations, questioning AAP’s governance record. “The Congress ruled for 15 years and AAP for 13.
Instead of questioning us on our first day, they should reflect on what they did during their tenure,” she said.
Gupta further defended her government’s actions, highlighting that her cabinet’s first decision was to implement the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, which she claimed had been blocked by AAP.
“On day one, we gave ₹10 lakh in health benefits to the people of Delhi. They have no right to question us,” she asserted.
She also took a swipe at AAP, hinting at internal troubles within the party. “They are worried about the CAG report being tabled in the House. Many people want to leave AAP, and their real concern is their own party’s downfall,” Gupta added.
