New Delhi, Feb 28: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has accused the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of obstructing the city's development by failing to cooperate with the central government. She assured that her administration would work in close coordination with the Union government to tackle key challenges, including law and order, women’s safety, and infrastructure issues.
Gupta made these remarks following a high-level law and order review meeting chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The meeting, attended by senior officials, focused on crime control, traffic management, and governance in the national capital.
Allegations Against AAP’s Governance
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Gupta criticized the previous AAP administration for its lack of collaboration with the Centre, which she claimed hindered Delhi’s progress."The discussion was very productive. The previous government’s non-cooperation with the Centre led to a stagnation in development. Whenever the government of India sought information on pressing issues, the AAP government failed to respond," she said.
Key Issues Discussed
Gupta highlighted that the meeting covered multiple civic and governance concerns, including traffic congestion, waterlogging, and the effectiveness of the prosecution system in maintaining law and order.A major focus of the discussions was on women’s safety, with plans underway to formulate stronger security measures. She also pointed out that solutions were being explored regarding the Public Works Department (PWD) and the growing threat of international criminal networks operating in Delhi.
Promise of a ‘Double-Engine Government’
Emphasizing the benefits of a BJP-led government at both the Centre and the state level, Gupta assured smoother governance and accelerated development.The BJP’s recent landslide victory in the Delhi Assembly elections, securing 48 out of 70 seats, ended the AAP’s 10-year reign, reducing it to just 22 seats. This marks the BJP’s return to power in the capital after 26 years.
Delhi’s Governance Framework
Under Article 239AA of the Constitution, Delhi’s governance structure grants control over most state subjects to the elected government, while police, public order, and land remain under the jurisdiction of the Centre through the Lieutenant Governor.With the BJP now in power, Gupta’s government has pledged to address longstanding civic and security issues through better coordination with the Centre.