Tue Mar 25 20:22:45 UTC 2025: ## Delhi BJP Government Unveils “Historic” Budget, Sparking Political Row

**New Delhi, March 26, 2025** – Delhi’s newly elected Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Chief Minister Rekha Gupta presented the first BJP government budget, hailing it as a “historic” document signifying “a confluence of glorious history and bright future.” The budget, described as a “clarion call for Delhi’s rebirth,” promises a focus on development and a departure from the policies of the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government.

Gupta’s speech, lasting over two hours, heavily criticized the AAP’s governance, accusing them of prioritizing politics over development, letting development “slip,” and engaging in corruption. She cited the AAP’s unfulfilled promises from the 2020 elections, contrasting them with the BJP’s commitment to “Viksit (developed) Delhi.” Gupta even proposed turning the renovated Chief Minister’s residence, dubbed the “Sheesh Mahal,” into a tourist attraction, a pointed jab at the alleged irregularities surrounding its renovation during AAP’s tenure. The residence is currently under investigation by central probe agencies.

AAP responded sharply. Senior AAP leader Atishi countered Gupta’s claims, suggesting the budget was a mere smokescreen to hide the BJP’s alleged broken promises and a lack of transparency. Atishi pointed to the absence of an Economic Survey, claiming it was deliberately withheld to conceal unfavorable financial data. She accused the BJP of focusing on slogans rather than substantial work and described the budget presentation as indicative of five years of “insults.” The AAP further criticized the BJP for remaining in “election mode” and urged them to focus on governance rather than political attacks. The budget announcement has ignited a significant political debate in Delhi.

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