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The political landscape of Delhi is poised for a significant shift as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) prepares to install its new Chief Minister. Following a resounding victory in the recent Delhi Assembly elections, where the BJP secured 48 seats compared to the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) 22, the party is set to form the next government. The swearing-in ceremony for the newly elected Chief Minister is scheduled for Thursday at 4:30 pm, a significant moment marking the BJP's return to power in Delhi after nearly three decades. The anticipation surrounding this event is palpable, with speculation rife about the identity of the individual who will lead the new government. The process leading up to this momentous occasion has been marked by careful deliberation and strategic maneuvering within the BJP.
Prior to the official announcement of the new Chief Minister, the 48 newly elected BJP MLAs are scheduled to convene on Wednesday. This meeting holds immense significance, as it is here that they will select their legislative party leader. This individual will almost certainly assume the role of Delhi's Chief Minister, effectively replacing Atishi from the AAP. The delay in announcing the new Chief Minister has been attributed to the recent overseas trip undertaken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sources indicate that the formation of the Delhi government was deliberately put on hold until Mr. Modi's return from his three-day visit to France and the United States. Now that he's back in India, it's expected that he will meet with Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP party chief JP Nadda, and the Delhi leadership to finalize the crucial decision.
Adding to the intrigue, reports suggest that a shortlist of 15 potential candidates for the Chief Minister's position has been compiled. From this list, nine individuals will be selected, including the Chief Minister, cabinet members, and the Assembly Speaker. This suggests that the new Delhi government will initially comprise eight ministers. The selection process underscores the meticulous approach the BJP is taking to form a stable and effective government. The considerable time taken to arrive at a decision reflects the importance of choosing the right person to lead Delhi during this crucial time. The potential candidates represent a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences within the party.
Among the names frequently mentioned as potential candidates for Chief Minister is Parvesh Verma, a two-time former Member of Parliament. His victory against AAP leader and former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the New Delhi constituency is seen as a significant accomplishment and a testament to his political prowess. This victory adds weight to his chances of securing the top post. Other names reportedly on the shortlist include Virendra Sachdeva, the Delhi unit president of the BJP, and Bansuri Swaraj, a first-time MP and daughter of the late Sushma Swaraj, a prominent figure in Indian politics. Satish Upadhyay, considered the BJP's Brahmin face in Delhi, also remains a strong contender. The diversity in backgrounds and experience within this shortlist indicates the BJP's commitment to inclusivity and effective governance.
The BJP's return to power in Delhi marks a significant turning point in the city's political landscape. Their victory in the February 5th election, securing 48 out of 70 Assembly seats, represents a remarkable turnaround after winning only 11 seats combined in the two previous elections. This dramatic shift reflects a significant change in voter sentiment. Conversely, the AAP, which was hoping for a third consecutive term, suffered a considerable setback. Their performance was significantly hampered by criticism leveled at party leader Arvind Kejriwal over controversies such as the 'sheeshmahal' (palace) and liquor excise policy scandals. This resulted in the party's securing only 22 seats, a sharp decline from their 67 seats in the 2015 election and 62 in 2020. The Congress party fared even worse, securing zero seats for the third consecutive Delhi election.
The upcoming swearing-in ceremony will not only mark the beginning of a new chapter in Delhi's political history but also signify the BJP's return to power after a prolonged absence. The choice of the new Chief Minister will be closely scrutinized, as it will determine the direction and priorities of the new government. The scale of the ceremony itself, described as a 'mega swearing-in ceremony,' points to the BJP's confidence and its intentions to establish a strong and visible presence in the city. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in observing how the new government addresses the various challenges and aspirations of the people of Delhi, marking a new era in the city's governance.
Source: Oath-Taking Ceremony Of Delhi's New Chief Minister On Thursday: Sources