Priyanka Tiwari
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Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta confirmed on Wednesday that her government is actively working on a new excise policy for the capital. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Gupta said the policy is still under development and it's too early to share specifics, given that her administration is only a month old.
“We are working on it right now. It’s a work in progress,” Gupta said, adding that new industrial and warehouse policies are also being formulated.
Centre-State Cooperation Called ‘Biggest Financial Asset’
Gupta emphasized the importance of cooperation between the Centre and the state, describing it as Delhi’s “biggest financial asset.” She criticized the previous AAP-led government for missing financial opportunities by not collaborating with the Centre.
“The earlier government was offered funds by the Centre, but they did not utilize them due to poor coordination,” she noted.
Commitment to Welfare Schemes and Budget Execution
Gupta reassured that her administration is committed to fulfilling all promises made in the party's manifesto. She highlighted the need for thorough groundwork—such as budget allocations, rulemaking, and beneficiary identification—before implementing any scheme.
Taking a swipe at the previous government, she said, “The AAP government often announced schemes on paper but couldn’t sustain them beyond a year. We don’t want to make the same mistake.”
Gupta emphasized careful eligibility checks for welfare schemes to prevent misuse and added, “We promised support for poor women, but implementation must be precise and sustainable.”
Criticism of AAP’s Governance Record
CM Gupta also criticized the Aam Aadmi Party for failing to deliver on key election promises. “They promised free Wi-Fi 10 years ago. Tell me, which part of Delhi gets free Wi-Fi?” she asked.
Gupta accused the AAP government of abandoning essential infrastructure projects, including hospitals and colleges, and of not paying salaries in Delhi government colleges. “They governed as though they were unaccountable,” she stated.
BJP Returns to Power After Two Decades
This political shift follows the BJP’s decisive win in the Delhi Assembly elections held in February 2025. The party secured 48 out of 70 seats, ending AAP’s decade-long rule, during which AAP managed only 22 seats this time.
