The inaugural session of the 8th Delhi Legislative Assembly commenced on February 24, 2025, marking a significant political shift as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) assumed power after a 27-year hiatus. The BJP secured a decisive majority in the recent elections, winning 48 out of 70 seats, while the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) obtained 22 seats.
Proceedings began with BJP MLA Arvinder Singh Lovely taking the oath as Protem Speaker at Raj Niwas, administered by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. Lovely, as the senior-most legislator, oversaw the swearing-in of newly elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs).
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, leading the new administration, addressed the assembly, emphasizing the government’s commitment to fulfilling electoral promises and seeking constructive cooperation from the opposition. She stated, “I want to say to the people of Delhi that our government will meet your expectations. We will fulfill all the poll promises we made.”
A notable agenda item was the tabling of 14 pending Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reports, previously withheld by the former AAP government. These reports, covering various departments and initiatives, were presented to ensure transparency and accountability.
The session also witnessed the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, providing a ₹5 lakh health insurance top-up for eligible residents. This move aims to enhance healthcare accessibility and address public health concerns in the capital.
Opposition members, led by AAP’s Atishi Marlena, raised concerns over alleged removal of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Bhagat Singh’s photos from the Chief Minister’s office, leading to protests within the assembly. The ruling party refuted these claims, urging the opposition to engage in constructive dialogue.
The first session of the 8th Delhi Legislative Assembly set the stage for a new political era, focusing on governance, transparency, and public welfare initiatives.
Parliament -New Delhi -24th February 2025
