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With Rekha Gupta becoming the fourth woman chief minister of Delhi, questions now arise about who will be the new leader of the opposition from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).&nbsp;
On Thursday (Feb 20), BJP leader Rekha Gupta was sworn in as the chief minister of Delhi in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan, becoming the fourth woman to lead the Delhi Assembly.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/meet-rekha-gupta-next-chief-minister-of-delhi-set-to-take-oath-on-feb-20-8737332">Meet Rekha Gupta, next chief minister of Delhi, set to take oath on Feb 20</a>
In the ceremony, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena administered the oath of office to Rekha Gupta and her council of ministers. Six other MLAs&mdash;Parvesh Sahib Singh, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh&mdash;also took oaths as ministers alongside Gupta.
While Rekha Gupta has been sworn in as the new chief minister, will Aam Aadmi Party&rsquo;s Atishi become the leader of the opposition to form a women-ruled Assembly?
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/5-goals-in-100-days-heres-what-delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-vows-to-achieve-in-her-tenure-8739929">'5 goals in 100 days' - Here's what Delhi CM Rekha Gupta vows to achieve in her tenure</a>
<h2>Will Atishi be the leader of opposition?</h2>
AAP will form the opposition in the Delhi Assembly following its first defeat in the elections to BJP.
Former chief minister Atishi is one of the contenders to lead the opposition in the Delhi Assembly. She represents the Kalkaji constituency, which she won for the second consecutive time.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-expresses-confidence-in-delhi-cm-rekha-guptas-leadership-she-has-risen-from-the-grassroots-8739582">PM Modi expresses confidence in Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's leadership: 'She has risen from the grassroots'</a>
Atishi became Delhi CM on September 21, 2024, after the resignation of her predecessor, Arvind Kejriwal.
She previously served as Minister of Education, PWD, Culture, and Tourism before she was appointed chief minister. From July 2015 until April 17, 2018, she was an adviser to then Deputy Chief Minister, Manish Sisodia, focusing mainly on education.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-gupta-to-be-next-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-says-i-hope-she-8737527">Rekha Gupta to be next Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal says &lsquo;I hope she&hellip;&rsquo;</a>
If Atishi becomes the leader of the opposition with Rekha Gupta as chief minister, the two will form a women-led Delhi Assembly for the first time. Interestingly, both are alumni of the University of Delhi.
Other possible contenders for the post of leader of opposition include Gopal Rai, who represents the Babarpur constituency; Jarnail Singh, who represents the Tilaknagar constituency; and Sanjeev Jha, who represents the Burari constituency.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Trending | On Thursday (Feb 20), BJP leader Rekha Gupta was sworn in as the chief minister of Delhi in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan, becoming the fourth woman to lead the Delhi Assembly.

With Rekha Gupta becoming the fourth woman chief minister of Delhi, questions now arise about who will be the new leader of the opposition from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). On Thursday (Feb 20), BJP leader Rekha Gupta was sworn in as the chief minister of Delhi in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan, becoming the fourth woman to lead the Delhi Assembly. Also read | Meet Rekha Gupta, next chief minister of Delhi, set to take oath on Feb 20 In the ceremony, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena administered the oath of office to Rekha Gupta and her council of ministers. Six other MLAs—Parvesh Sahib Singh, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh—also took oaths as ministers alongside Gupta. While Rekha Gupta has been sworn in as the new chief minister, will Aam Aadmi Party’s Atishi become the leader of the opposition to form a women-ruled Assembly? Also read | '5 goals in 100 days' - Here's what Delhi CM Rekha Gupta vows to achieve in her tenure Will Atishi be the leader of opposition? AAP will form the opposition in the Delhi Assembly following its first defeat in the elections to BJP. Former chief minister Atishi is one of the contenders to lead the opposition in the Delhi Assembly. She represents the Kalkaji constituency, which she won for the second consecutive time. Also read | PM Modi expresses confidence in Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's leadership: 'She has risen from the grassroots' Atishi became Delhi CM on September 21, 2024, after the resignation of her predecessor, Arvind Kejriwal. She previously served as Minister of Education, PWD, Culture, and Tourism before she was appointed chief minister. From July 2015 until April 17, 2018, she was an adviser to then Deputy Chief Minister, Manish Sisodia, focusing mainly on education. Also read | Rekha Gupta to be next Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal says ‘I hope she…’ If Atishi becomes the leader of the opposition with Rekha Gupta as chief minister, the two will form a women-led Delhi Assembly for the first time. Interestingly, both are alumni of the University of Delhi. Other possible contenders for the post of leader of opposition include Gopal Rai, who represents the Babarpur constituency; Jarnail Singh, who represents the Tilaknagar constituency; and Sanjeev Jha, who represents the Burari constituency. (With inputs from agencies)

Will Atishi lead opposition, make it women-ruled Delhi Assembly with CM Rekha Gupta?

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir finally witnessed a fresh spell of snowfall over the higher reaches and rains in plains after a 50-day dry spell. The snow and rain across the region brought cheer and relief among the people of the Valley. Due to the snowfall around Zojila area, the highway that connects Kashmir to Ladakh has been shut for traffic as well.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/day-of-grief-for-israel-says-netanyahu-as-hamas-confirms-youngest-hostage-kfir-bibass-body-among-dead-to-be-released-today-8738314" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;Day of grief&rsquo;, says Netanyahu as Hamas prepares to return baby Kfir Bibas&rsquo;s body</a>
Areas like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg received a fresh spell of snow while Srinagar witnessed rains, bringing the much-needed respite as multiple water bodies and springs had dried up due to no precipitation in the area. As January and February so far saw negligible precipitation, it led to the drying of water bodies and caused rampant forest fires. So much so that the Government of Jammu and Kashmir had to postpone the Khelo India Winter Games due to insufficient snow in the Ski Resort Gulmarg.
Global warming is impacting the weather patterns of Jammu and Kashmir drastically. With January 2025 being one of the driest &lsquo;Chillai Kalan&rsquo; periods in many decades, the water bodies across the Kashmir division are drying up, sounding an alarm for the summers. The MeT department has predicted a wet spell across the region in the next 24 hours. But it might not just be enough.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-possible-trump-eyes-new-trade-deal-with-china-8738910" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;It&rsquo;s possible&rsquo;: Trump eyes new trade deal with China</a>
The MeT department has said that there is going to be a wet spell starting February 25th till 28th. The valley also saw a sudden drop in the temperatures as it was recording temperatures 6 degrees above normal.
The change in weather across Jammu and Kashmir has impacted the weather across North India. National Capital New Delhi also witnessed rain in the morning and a dip in the temperatures.
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-orders-firing-of-all-biden-era-us-attorneys-in-major-justice-department-shakeup-8734328" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Trump orders firing of all Biden-era US attorneys in major Justice Department shakeup: 'We must clean house IMMEDIATELY'</a>

India News: Areas like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg received a fresh spell of snow while Srinagar witnessed rains, bringing the much-needed respite as multiple water bodies and springs had dried up due to no precipitation in the area.

Srinagar: Jammu and Kashmir finally witnessed a fresh spell of snowfall over the higher reaches and rains in plains after a 50-day dry spell. The snow and rain across the region brought cheer and relief among the people of the Valley. Due to the snowfall around Zojila area, the highway that connects Kashmir to Ladakh has been shut for traffic as well. Also read: ‘Day of grief’, says Netanyahu as Hamas prepares to return baby Kfir Bibas’s body Areas like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg received a fresh spell of snow while Srinagar witnessed rains, bringing the much-needed respite as multiple water bodies and springs had dried up due to no precipitation in the area. As January and February so far saw negligible precipitation, it led to the drying of water bodies and caused rampant forest fires. So much so that the Government of Jammu and Kashmir had to postpone the Khelo India Winter Games due to insufficient snow in the Ski Resort Gulmarg. Global warming is impacting the weather patterns of Jammu and Kashmir drastically. With January 2025 being one of the driest ‘Chillai Kalan’ periods in many decades, the water bodies across the Kashmir division are drying up, sounding an alarm for the summers. The MeT department has predicted a wet spell across the region in the next 24 hours. But it might not just be enough. Also read: ‘It’s possible’: Trump eyes new trade deal with China The MeT department has said that there is going to be a wet spell starting February 25th till 28th. The valley also saw a sudden drop in the temperatures as it was recording temperatures 6 degrees above normal. The change in weather across Jammu and Kashmir has impacted the weather across North India. National Capital New Delhi also witnessed rain in the morning and a dip in the temperatures. Also read: Trump orders firing of all Biden-era US attorneys in major Justice Department shakeup: 'We must clean house IMMEDIATELY'

Fresh snowfall and rain in Kashmir Valley end dry spell, bring respite

After being sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister on Thursday (Feb 20), Rekha Gupta has planned to tackle five&nbsp;major issues within the first 100 days to show "visible results" to the people of Delhi.&nbsp;
Gupta will assume office at the Delhi Secretariat around 3 pm and will&nbsp;chair her first Cabinet meeting at 7 pm.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is under pressure to show quick progress after securing a decisive mandate with 48 out of 70 seats, News 18 reported, citing party sources.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-expresses-confidence-in-delhi-cm-rekha-guptas-leadership-she-has-risen-from-the-grassroots-8739582">PM Modi expresses confidence in Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's leadership: 'She has risen from the grassroots'</a>
<h2>'Five key issues'</h2>
In her 100-day action plan, Gupta's agenda includes rolling out the Ayushman Bharat medical insurance scheme in Delhi, a long-pending demand aimed at improving access to healthcare for the underprivileged.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Her government will focus on cleaning the Yamuna River. A project that has been at the center of environmental and political debates for years.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-gupta-sworn-in-as-delhi-chief-minister-makes-history-as-national-capitals-4th-woman-cm-8739312">Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister, becomes 4th woman CM</a>
<ul>
<li>She also said that she would be prioritising de-silting of roads and sewers to prevent waterlogging on roads.</li>
<li>For sanitation, the Chief Minister will launch a massive citywide cleanliness drive, targeting garbage accumulation and unclean public spaces.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Last but not the least, her key agenda includes the repair and maintenance of roads, a move expected to enhance connectivity and reduce congestion.</li>
</ul>
These pressing issues will be discussed in the first cabinet meeting after Gupta's oath-taking ceremony on Thursday.&nbsp;
Rekha Gupta was sworn-in as Delhi Chief Minister today (Thursday, Feb 20) at a ceremony held at the Ramlila Maidan in the national capital.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-new-cm-2025-rekha-gupta-oath-taking-ceremony-live-from-ramlila-maidan-parvesh-verma-as-deputy-chief-minister-20-february-8738523">Delhi New CM Oath Ceremony: Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi CM</a>
She described her appointment as a "miracle" and a "new chapter" for women in politics. Gupta vowed to hold corrupt individuals accountable and ensure transparency in the national capital.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, six other BJP leaders, including&nbsp;Parvesh Sahib Singh (Deputy CM), Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh, were also sworn in as ministers.&nbsp;
The grand ceremony was attended by the BJP's top leadership, including PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and other key leaders.&nbsp;
"The President is pleased to appoint Mrs Rekha Gupta as the Chief Minister, National Capital Territory of Delhi with effect from the date she is sworn in," an official notification by Home Affairs read.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-net-worth-all-you-need-to-know-8739017">Delhi CM Rekha Gupta net worth. All you need to know</a>
PM Narendra Modi also extended his congratulations to Rekha Gupta on assuming office as Delhi CM. 
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Gupta will assume office at the Delhi Secretariat around 3 pm and will visit Yamuna Bazaar at 5 pm. She will then chair her first Cabinet meeting at 7 pm.

After being sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister on Thursday (Feb 20), Rekha Gupta has planned to tackle five major issues within the first 100 days to show "visible results" to the people of Delhi. Gupta will assume office at the Delhi Secretariat around 3 pm and will chair her first Cabinet meeting at 7 pm. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is under pressure to show quick progress after securing a decisive mandate with 48 out of 70 seats, News 18 reported, citing party sources. Also read: PM Modi expresses confidence in Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's leadership: 'She has risen from the grassroots' 'Five key issues' In her 100-day action plan, Gupta's agenda includes rolling out the Ayushman Bharat medical insurance scheme in Delhi, a long-pending demand aimed at improving access to healthcare for the underprivileged. Her government will focus on cleaning the Yamuna River. A project that has been at the center of environmental and political debates for years. Also read: Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister, becomes 4th woman CM She also said that she would be prioritising de-silting of roads and sewers to prevent waterlogging on roads. For sanitation, the Chief Minister will launch a massive citywide cleanliness drive, targeting garbage accumulation and unclean public spaces. Last but not the least, her key agenda includes the repair and maintenance of roads, a move expected to enhance connectivity and reduce congestion. These pressing issues will be discussed in the first cabinet meeting after Gupta's oath-taking ceremony on Thursday. Rekha Gupta was sworn-in as Delhi Chief Minister today (Thursday, Feb 20) at a ceremony held at the Ramlila Maidan in the national capital. Also read: Delhi New CM Oath Ceremony: Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi CM She described her appointment as a "miracle" and a "new chapter" for women in politics. Gupta vowed to hold corrupt individuals accountable and ensure transparency in the national capital. Meanwhile, six other BJP leaders, including Parvesh Sahib Singh (Deputy CM), Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh, were also sworn in as ministers. The grand ceremony was attended by the BJP's top leadership, including PM Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah and other key leaders. "The President is pleased to appoint Mrs Rekha Gupta as the Chief Minister, National Capital Territory of Delhi with effect from the date she is sworn in," an official notification by Home Affairs read. Also read: Delhi CM Rekha Gupta net worth. All you need to know PM Narendra Modi also extended his congratulations to Rekha Gupta on assuming office as Delhi CM. (With inputs from agencies)

'5 goals in 100 days' - Here's what Delhi CM Rekha Gupta vows to achieve in her tenure

BJP MLA Rekha Gupta took oath as the new Chief Minister of Delhi along with her six cabinet colleagues. Rekha Gupta was sworn in at a grand ceremony at the iconic Ramlila Maidan, 11 days after her party returned to power in the national capital after more than 27 years. Watch in for more details!

Delhi CM: PM Modi, home minister Amit Shah attend oath-taking ceremony

Delhi gets new chief minister, mega oath ceremony at Ramlila ground

Rekha Gupta sworn in as Chief Minister of Delhi along with six cabinet members

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday (Feb 20), extended his congratulatory wishes to Rekha Gupta on taking oath as Delhi's Chief Minister.&nbsp;
Lauding Gupta, the Indian PM said that the new Delhi CM has risen from the grassroots and expressed confidence in her leadership saying that she will work for Delhi's development with "full vigour".
Taking to his official X account, PM Modi wrote in a post, "Congratulations to Smt. Rekha Gupta Ji on taking oath as Delhi's Chief Minister. She has risen from the grassroots, being active in campus politics, state organisation, municipal administration and now MLA as well as Chief Minister. I am confident she will work for Delhi's development with full vigour. My best wishes to her for a fruitful tenure."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7d4qyso-2ee5um5d-1tqf7qc6">
Congratulations to Smt. Rekha Gupta Ji on taking oath as Delhi's Chief Minister. She has risen from the grassroots, being active in campus politics, state organisation, municipal administration and now MLA as well as Chief Minister. I am confident she will work for Delhi's&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/GEC9liURd9">pic.twitter.com/GEC9liURd9</a>
&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1892484925523447886?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
President Droupadi Murmu officially announced the appointment of the Chief Minister of Delhi and her cabinet.
"The President is pleased to appoint Mrs Rekha Gupta as the Chief Minister, National Capital Territory of Delhi with effect from the date she is sworn in," read the gazette notification by Home Affairs.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-gupta-sworn-in-as-delhi-chief-minister-makes-history-as-national-capitals-4th-woman-cm-8739312">Also read: Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister, becomes 4th woman CM</a>
<h2>Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister</h2>
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta was on Thursday (Feb 20) sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan.
In the ceremony, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena administered the oath of office to Rekha Gupta and her council of ministers.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7d4rgxq-aes349ez-ze9xo7fm">
Rekha Gupta takes oath as Delhi's chief minister as BJP forms government in the national capital after 27 years<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiGovernment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiGovernment</a> Track updates here: <a href="https://t.co/n2ajAcsh3F">https://t.co/n2ajAcsh3F</a> <a href="https://t.co/JPojwaLaCe">pic.twitter.com/JPojwaLaCe</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1892468771090211269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Cabinet, and Chief Ministers from various states.&nbsp;
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister JP Nadda, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, also attended the event.
Six other MLAs, including Parvesh Sahib Singh, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh, also took oath as ministers alongside Gupta.&nbsp;
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, Bihar Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha, Rajasthan Deputy CM Prem Chand Bairwa, Goa CM Pramod Sawant, Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu and other leaders were also present.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta was on Thursday (Feb 20) sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday (Feb 20), extended his congratulatory wishes to Rekha Gupta on taking oath as Delhi's Chief Minister. Lauding Gupta, the Indian PM said that the new Delhi CM has risen from the grassroots and expressed confidence in her leadership saying that she will work for Delhi's development with "full vigour". Taking to his official X account, PM Modi wrote in a post, "Congratulations to Smt. Rekha Gupta Ji on taking oath as Delhi's Chief Minister. She has risen from the grassroots, being active in campus politics, state organisation, municipal administration and now MLA as well as Chief Minister. I am confident she will work for Delhi's development with full vigour. My best wishes to her for a fruitful tenure." Congratulations to Smt. Rekha Gupta Ji on taking oath as Delhi's Chief Minister. She has risen from the grassroots, being active in campus politics, state organisation, municipal administration and now MLA as well as Chief Minister. I am confident she will work for Delhi's… pic.twitter.com/GEC9liURd9 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 20, 2025 President Droupadi Murmu officially announced the appointment of the Chief Minister of Delhi and her cabinet. "The President is pleased to appoint Mrs Rekha Gupta as the Chief Minister, National Capital Territory of Delhi with effect from the date she is sworn in," read the gazette notification by Home Affairs. Also read: Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister, becomes 4th woman CM Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta was on Thursday (Feb 20) sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan. In the ceremony, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena administered the oath of office to Rekha Gupta and her council of ministers. Rekha Gupta takes oath as Delhi's chief minister as BJP forms government in the national capital after 27 years#DelhiGovernment Track updates here: https://t.co/n2ajAcsh3F pic.twitter.com/JPojwaLaCe — WION (@WIONews) February 20, 2025 The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Cabinet, and Chief Ministers from various states. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister JP Nadda, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, also attended the event. Six other MLAs, including Parvesh Sahib Singh, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh, also took oath as ministers alongside Gupta. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, Bihar Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha, Rajasthan Deputy CM Prem Chand Bairwa, Goa CM Pramod Sawant, Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu and other leaders were also present. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi expresses confidence in Delhi CM Rekha Gupta's leadership: 'She has risen from the grassroots'

The Uttar Pradesh Police, on Wednesday (Feb 19), registered two cases against social media accounts accused of sharing and selling explicit videos of women pilgrims bathing at the Maha Kumbh.
The move came under the directives of Uttar Pradesh police chief Prashant Kumar as part of a broader effort to combat misleading and offensive social media content related to the religious gathering.&nbsp;
The move came after the social media monitoring team detected these platforms uploading, and sharing videos of women bathing and changing clothes, prompting the police to register cases at the Kotwali Kumbh Mela police station. Legal proceedings are now underway to address this serious breach of privacy and dignity, the police said in a statement.
A case was lodged on Monday (February 17) against an Instagram account for allegedly sharing inappropriate videos of women pilgrims.
The police said that they have asked for information from tech giant Meta, which owns Instagram, to identify the user operating the account so that action can be taken against the individual.
Another case was registered against a Telegram channel on Wednesday (Feb 19), for putting similar videos out for sale.
The police said that legal proceedings were initiated against the channel and further investigation was underway.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-cm-yogi-adityanath-slams-mamata-banerjee-over-mrityu-kumbh-remark-8736518">Also read: UP CM Yogi Adityanath slams Mamata Banerjee over &lsquo;Mrityu-Kumbh&rsquo; remark</a>
<h2>High levels of faecal bacteria found in Sangam waters? UP CM Yogi rejects reports</h2>
Meanwhile, the 'Sangam' waters in India's Prayagraj were found to be contaminated with alarming levels of faecal bacteria, said a government agency.&nbsp;
Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, rejected the report and slammed the Opposition, saying that "they have been against the Maha Kumbh since day 1". CM Yogi, while addressing the UP assembly, said that 'Sangam' water is "fit for drinking".&nbsp;
The Information Department of India's Uttar Pradesh state said that more than 555.6 million people had taken the holy dip till February 18.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: The move came after the social media monitoring team detected these platforms uploading, and sharing videos of women bathing and changing clothes, prompting the police to register cases at the Kotwali Kumbh Mela police station.

The Uttar Pradesh Police, on Wednesday (Feb 19), registered two cases against social media accounts accused of sharing and selling explicit videos of women pilgrims bathing at the Maha Kumbh. The move came under the directives of Uttar Pradesh police chief Prashant Kumar as part of a broader effort to combat misleading and offensive social media content related to the religious gathering. The move came after the social media monitoring team detected these platforms uploading, and sharing videos of women bathing and changing clothes, prompting the police to register cases at the Kotwali Kumbh Mela police station. Legal proceedings are now underway to address this serious breach of privacy and dignity, the police said in a statement. A case was lodged on Monday (February 17) against an Instagram account for allegedly sharing inappropriate videos of women pilgrims. The police said that they have asked for information from tech giant Meta, which owns Instagram, to identify the user operating the account so that action can be taken against the individual. Another case was registered against a Telegram channel on Wednesday (Feb 19), for putting similar videos out for sale. The police said that legal proceedings were initiated against the channel and further investigation was underway. Also read: UP CM Yogi Adityanath slams Mamata Banerjee over ‘Mrityu-Kumbh’ remark High levels of faecal bacteria found in Sangam waters? UP CM Yogi rejects reports Meanwhile, the 'Sangam' waters in India's Prayagraj were found to be contaminated with alarming levels of faecal bacteria, said a government agency. Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, rejected the report and slammed the Opposition, saying that "they have been against the Maha Kumbh since day 1". CM Yogi, while addressing the UP assembly, said that 'Sangam' water is "fit for drinking". The Information Department of India's Uttar Pradesh state said that more than 555.6 million people had taken the holy dip till February 18. (With inputs from agencies)

Maha Kumbh 2025: Instagram, Telegram channels under the lens for videos of bathing women

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta, on Thursday (Feb 20), was sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan.
In the ceremony, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena administered the oath of office to Rekha Gupta and her council of ministers.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Cabinet, and Chief Ministers from various states.&nbsp;
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister JP Nadda, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, also attended the event.
Six other MLAs, including Parvesh Sahib Singh, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh, also took oath as ministers alongside Gupta.&nbsp;
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, Bihar Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha, Rajasthan Deputy CM Prem Chand Bairwa, Goa CM Pramod Sawant, Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu and other leaders were also present at the spot.
This marks a significant milestone, as Gupta becomes the fourth woman to hold this office, following in the footsteps of Atishi Singh, Sushma Swaraj, and Sheila Dikshit.
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Rekha Gupta takes oath as Delhi's chief minister as BJP forms government in the national capital after 27 years<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiGovernment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiGovernment</a> Track updates here: <a href="https://t.co/n2ajAcsh3F">https://t.co/n2ajAcsh3F</a> <a href="https://t.co/JPojwaLaCe">pic.twitter.com/JPojwaLaCe</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1892468771090211269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
The BJP's landslide victory in the Assembly elections, securing 48 seats out of 70, paved the way for Gupta's appointment as Chief Minister.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-guptas-cabinet-parvesh-verma-ashish-sood-and-4-other-bjp-mlas-named-as-ministers-in-bjps-delhi-government-8738491">Also read: Rekha Gupta's Cabinet: Parvesh Verma, Ashish Sood, 4 other BJP MLAs to be ministers in Delhi government</a>
<h2>Who is Rekha Gupta?</h2>
A first-time MLA, Gupta contested the Shalimar Bagh constituency in the Delhi assembly elections against AAP's Bandana Kumari and won by 29,595 votes, marking the end of AAP&rsquo;s decade-long hold in the area.
Born in 1974, Gupta hails from Nandgarh village in Haryana&rsquo;s Jind district. In 1976, her family moved to Delhi, where she completed her primary and higher education. Her father was an officer in the State Bank of India.
A lawyer by profession, Gupta began her political career in 1992 when she joined the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) at Daulat Ram College, Delhi University. She became President of the Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU) in 1996-97.
In 2007, she won the Delhi Councillor election from North Pitampura. She launched the &ldquo;Sumedha Yojana&rdquo; to support economically weaker female students in higher education. She also led initiatives for women empowerment as Chair of the Women Welfare and Child Development Committee.
Gupta has also served as General Secretary of BJP Mahila Morcha in Delhi and was part of its national executive committee.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: A first-time MLA, Gupta contested the Shalimar Bagh constituency in the Delhi assembly elections against AAP's Bandana Kumari and won by 29,595 votes, marking the end of AAP’s decade-long hold in the area.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta, on Thursday (Feb 20), was sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister in a grand ceremony at the Ramlila Maidan. In the ceremony, Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena administered the oath of office to Rekha Gupta and her council of ministers. The swearing-in ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Union Cabinet, and Chief Ministers from various states. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Union Minister JP Nadda, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, also attended the event. Six other MLAs, including Parvesh Sahib Singh, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj Singh, Kapil Mishra, and Pankaj Kumar Singh, also took oath as ministers alongside Gupta. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, Bihar Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha, Rajasthan Deputy CM Prem Chand Bairwa, Goa CM Pramod Sawant, Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu and other leaders were also present at the spot. This marks a significant milestone, as Gupta becomes the fourth woman to hold this office, following in the footsteps of Atishi Singh, Sushma Swaraj, and Sheila Dikshit. Rekha Gupta takes oath as Delhi's chief minister as BJP forms government in the national capital after 27 years#DelhiGovernment Track updates here: https://t.co/n2ajAcsh3F pic.twitter.com/JPojwaLaCe — WION (@WIONews) February 20, 2025 The BJP's landslide victory in the Assembly elections, securing 48 seats out of 70, paved the way for Gupta's appointment as Chief Minister. Also read: Rekha Gupta's Cabinet: Parvesh Verma, Ashish Sood, 4 other BJP MLAs to be ministers in Delhi government Who is Rekha Gupta? A first-time MLA, Gupta contested the Shalimar Bagh constituency in the Delhi assembly elections against AAP's Bandana Kumari and won by 29,595 votes, marking the end of AAP’s decade-long hold in the area. Born in 1974, Gupta hails from Nandgarh village in Haryana’s Jind district. In 1976, her family moved to Delhi, where she completed her primary and higher education. Her father was an officer in the State Bank of India. A lawyer by profession, Gupta began her political career in 1992 when she joined the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) at Daulat Ram College, Delhi University. She became President of the Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU) in 1996-97. In 2007, she won the Delhi Councillor election from North Pitampura. She launched the “Sumedha Yojana” to support economically weaker female students in higher education. She also led initiatives for women empowerment as Chair of the Women Welfare and Child Development Committee. Gupta has also served as General Secretary of BJP Mahila Morcha in Delhi and was part of its national executive committee. (With inputs from agencies)

Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi Chief Minister, becomes 4th woman CM

Rohini MLA Vijender Gupta has been nominated as the BJP's candidate for the post of Delhi Assembly Speaker, party leaders confirmed on Thursday (Feb 20).&nbsp;
With this nomination, Gupta marks a striking comeback. Nearly a decade ago, he was physically removed from the Delhi Assembly by marshals after a heated altercation.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/incoming-delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-promises-first-installment-of-2500-support-for-women-will-be-credited-by-womens-day-8738867">Incoming Delhi CM Rekha Gupta promises first installment of ₹2,500 support for women will be credited by Women's Day</a>
<h2>Vijender Gupta confirms nomination</h2>
Speaking to PTI, Gupta confirmed his nomination and expressed his commitment to transparency, stating, &ldquo;I will first of all get the CAG reports that were kept pending by the previous AAP government tabled before the House.&rdquo; &nbsp;
A third-term legislator from Rohini, Gupta&mdash;along with other BJP MLAs&mdash;had previously taken legal action against AAP. They had alleged that the AAP government had blocked the tabling of 14 Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reports on its performance. &nbsp;
The Assembly Speaker is elected by House members. With 48 MLAs in the newly constituted 8th Delhi Assembly, the BJP holds a clear majority and can easily clear Gupta&rsquo;s nomination. AAP meanwhile has only 22 legislators. &nbsp;&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-guptas-cabinet-parvesh-verma-ashish-sood-and-4-other-bjp-mlas-named-as-ministers-in-bjps-delhi-government-8738491">Rekha Gupta's Cabinet: Parvesh Verma, Ashish Sood, 4 other BJP MLAs to be ministers in Delhi government</a>
<h2>A comeback for the books &nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
Gupta's nomination marks a comeback for the books. In November 2015, the BJP MLA was picked up and carried out of the Delhi assembly over alleged derogatory remarks made by BJP MLA OP Sharma against then-AAP MLA Alka Lamba. &nbsp;
Dramatic visuals from the time showed Gupta, dressed in a white kurta-pyjama, resisting as half a dozen marshals carried him out of the chamber. &nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-cm-rekha-gupta-net-worth-all-you-need-to-know-8739017">Delhi CM Rekha Gupta net worth; All you need to know</a>
Now, following the BJP&rsquo;s sweeping victory in the Delhi Assembly elections, Gupta returns&mdash;not as an opposition leader but as Speaker of the House. &nbsp;
&ldquo;I am thankful to the party for giving me this responsibility... to be Speaker of the Delhi Assembly. I will fulfill my responsibility. I hope we will have healthy discussions in the House,&rdquo; he said after his nomination. &nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Vijender Gupta makes a dramatic return, nominated as BJP's Delhi Assembly Speaker candidate, marking a political comeback after past forced removal from house.

Rohini MLA Vijender Gupta has been nominated as the BJP's candidate for the post of Delhi Assembly Speaker, party leaders confirmed on Thursday (Feb 20). With this nomination, Gupta marks a striking comeback. Nearly a decade ago, he was physically removed from the Delhi Assembly by marshals after a heated altercation. Also read | Incoming Delhi CM Rekha Gupta promises first installment of ₹2,500 support for women will be credited by Women's Day Vijender Gupta confirms nomination Speaking to PTI, Gupta confirmed his nomination and expressed his commitment to transparency, stating, “I will first of all get the CAG reports that were kept pending by the previous AAP government tabled before the House.” A third-term legislator from Rohini, Gupta—along with other BJP MLAs—had previously taken legal action against AAP. They had alleged that the AAP government had blocked the tabling of 14 Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reports on its performance. The Assembly Speaker is elected by House members. With 48 MLAs in the newly constituted 8th Delhi Assembly, the BJP holds a clear majority and can easily clear Gupta’s nomination. AAP meanwhile has only 22 legislators. Also read | Rekha Gupta's Cabinet: Parvesh Verma, Ashish Sood, 4 other BJP MLAs to be ministers in Delhi government A comeback for the books Gupta's nomination marks a comeback for the books. In November 2015, the BJP MLA was picked up and carried out of the Delhi assembly over alleged derogatory remarks made by BJP MLA OP Sharma against then-AAP MLA Alka Lamba. Dramatic visuals from the time showed Gupta, dressed in a white kurta-pyjama, resisting as half a dozen marshals carried him out of the chamber. Also read | Delhi CM Rekha Gupta net worth; All you need to know Now, following the BJP’s sweeping victory in the Delhi Assembly elections, Gupta returns—not as an opposition leader but as Speaker of the House. “I am thankful to the party for giving me this responsibility... to be Speaker of the Delhi Assembly. I will fulfill my responsibility. I hope we will have healthy discussions in the House,” he said after his nomination. (With inputs from agencies)

Vijender Gupta's Epic Comeback: Once thrown out, BJP MLA now nominated as Delhi Assembly Speaker

Rekha Gupta takes oath as Delhi Chief Minister at Ramlila ground

Delhi New CM Rekha Gupta Oath Ceremony Live: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta, on Thursday (Feb 20), was sworn-in as Delhi Chief Minister in a grand ceremony at Ramlila Maidan.

Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu said, "We are going to see a new change in Delhi and also it will be a different Delhi from now...It (tenure) will not only be smooth but there will be extraordinary performance. Every citizen of this county will be proud of it...We are very happy, now new era has started in Delhi. Excellent development is going to take place. For the last 10 years, it didn't work well in Delhi. Now, it is a new era."
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi swearing-in ceremony | Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu says, "We are going to see a new change in Delhi and also it will be a different Delhi from now...It (tenure) will not only be smooth but there will be extraordinary performance. Every citizen of this&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/DVNbA0CgEZ">pic.twitter.com/DVNbA0CgEZ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892475931484442784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

'We are going to see a new change in Delhi,' Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu

After new govt takes oath in Delhi, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri says, "This is a matter of happiness for Delhi as after a lot of years, the double engine government has been formed in Delhi...The government will work for the development of Delhi..."
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | After new govt takes oath in Delhi, Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri says, "This is a matter of happiness for Delhi as after a lot of years, the double engine government has been formed in Delhi...The government will work for the development of Delhi..." <a href="https://t.co/vaLwsp4H09">pic.twitter.com/vaLwsp4H09</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892475427685347734?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

'This is a matter of happiness for Delhi,' says Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri 

After new govt takes oath in Delhi, Bihar Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha says, "Delhi's victory is the country's victory. The BJP has made a person the Chief Minister who has a lot of experience. This is proof of Prime Minister Modi's commitment towards women's empowerment..."
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | After new govt takes oath in Delhi, Bihar Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha says, "Delhi's victory is the country's victory. The BJP has made a person the Chief Minister who has a lot of experience. This is proof of Prime Minister Modi's commitment towards women's&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/k3m1aWx5Ea">pic.twitter.com/k3m1aWx5Ea</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892474798170939806?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

'Delhi's victory is the country's victory,' Bihar Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha 

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | BJP's Pankaj Kumar Singh takes oath as a minister in CM Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government. <a href="https://t.co/t7BfQap8Fs">pic.twitter.com/t7BfQap8Fs</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892471595613958413?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

BJP's Pankaj Kumar Singh takes oath

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | BJP's Kapil Mishra takes oath as a minister in CM Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government. <a href="https://t.co/PVDlRfsq1U">pic.twitter.com/PVDlRfsq1U</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892471112975384845?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

BJP's Kapil Mishra takes oath as a minister in CM Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | BJP's Ravinder Indraj Singh takes oath as a minister in CM Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government. <a href="https://t.co/sZmTcKDwXw">pic.twitter.com/sZmTcKDwXw</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892470679565652190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

BJP's Ravinder Indraj Singh takes oath as a minister in CM Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | BJP's Manjinder Singh Sirsa takes oath as a minister in CM Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government. <a href="https://t.co/YNg5FInMoR">pic.twitter.com/YNg5FInMoR</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892470239368986814?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

BJP's Manjinder Singh Sirsa takes oath as a minister in CM Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | BJP's Ashish Sood takes oath as a minister in CM Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government. <a href="https://t.co/jFAVIX4Frj">pic.twitter.com/jFAVIX4Frj</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892469804658749477?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

BJP's Ashish Sood takes oath as a minister in CM Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | BJP's Parvesh Sahib Singh takes oath as minister in CM Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government. <a href="https://t.co/0ertQiFXHO">pic.twitter.com/0ertQiFXHO</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892469292790079892?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

BJP's Parvesh Sahib Singh takes oath as minister in CM Rekha Gupta-led Delhi Government

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Rekha Gupta takes oath as Delhi's chief minister as BJP forms government in the national capital after 27 years<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DelhiGovernment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DelhiGovernment</a> Track updates here: <a href="https://t.co/n2ajAcsh3F">https://t.co/n2ajAcsh3F</a> <a href="https://t.co/JPojwaLaCe">pic.twitter.com/JPojwaLaCe</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1892468771090211269?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi CM

BJP's first-time MLA Rekha Gupta takes oath as the Chief Minister of Delhi. Lt Governor VK Saxena administers her oath of office.&nbsp;
With this, Delhi gets its fourth woman CM, after BJP's Sushma Swaraj, Congress' Sheila Dikshit, and AAP's Atishi.

BJP's first-time MLA Rekha Gupta takes oath as the Chief Minister of Delhi

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaches Ramlila Maidan to attend the oath ceremony of Delhi CM designate Rekha Gupta <a href="https://t.co/mmncYl3bku">pic.twitter.com/mmncYl3bku</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892467308854903058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaches Ramlila Maidan to attend the oath ceremony of Delhi CM designate Rekha Gupta

Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta greets crowd at Ramlila Maidan. She will take oath as the Chief Minister shortly.
&nbsp;
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta does a 'Namaste' to the crowd at Ramlila Maidan. She will take oath as the Chief Minister shortly. <a href="https://t.co/DItZ3mw9ct">pic.twitter.com/DItZ3mw9ct</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892464931393409472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta greets crowd at Ramlila Maidan

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP National President JP Nadda greet Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta as they arrive at Ramlila Maidan to attend her oath ceremony.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP National President JP Nadda greet Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta as they arrive at Ramlila Maidan to attend her oath ceremony. <a href="https://t.co/TsZFOGs1NZ">pic.twitter.com/TsZFOGs1NZ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892463915340054637?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP National President JP Nadda arrive at Ramlila Maidan 

Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu arrives at Ramlila Maidan to attend the oath ceremony of Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta and her council of ministers.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu arrives at Ramlila Maidan to attend the oath ceremony of Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta and her council of ministers. <a href="https://t.co/NHTDcpQRwP">pic.twitter.com/NHTDcpQRwP</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892462731040555250?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu arrives at Ramlila Maidan to attend the oath ceremony 

BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri says, "AAP-da se mukti...The development of the country under PM Narendra Modi will now be seen in Delhi too."
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri says, "AAP-da se mukti...The development of the country under PM Narendra Modi will now be seen in Delhi too." <a href="https://t.co/p0eZ2304mW">pic.twitter.com/p0eZ2304mW</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892459882600673577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

'AAP-da se mukti': BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri 

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini greets Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta as he arrives at Ramlila Maidan to attend her oath ceremony. <a href="https://t.co/x1SIiRYf3x">pic.twitter.com/x1SIiRYf3x</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892461023296123107?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini greets Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta as he arrives at Ramlila Maidan

On the swearing-in ceremony of Delhi CM Designate Rekha Gupta, BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj says, "There will be a lot of development in Delhi after BJP leader Rekha Gupta takes oath as the CM of Delhi. She will write a new chapter of development under the leadership of PM Modi...It is a very emotional day and my mother, Sushma Swaraj is surely blessing Rekha Gupta ..."
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: On the swearing-in ceremony of Delhi CM Designate Rekha Gupta, BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj says, "There will be a lot of development in Delhi after BJP leader Rekha Gupta takes oath as the CM of Delhi. She will write a new chapter of development under the leadership of&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/OQPDS82L2Z">pic.twitter.com/OQPDS82L2Z</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892455054323700029?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

'My mother, Sushma Swaraj is surely blessing Rekha Gupta,' says BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj 

Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta joined by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav, Rajasthan Deputy CM Prem Chand Bairwa and senior BJP leader Vasundhara Raje in showing a victory sign, at Ramlila Maidan.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta joined by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav, Rajasthan Deputy CM Prem Chand Bairwa and senior BJP leader Vasundhara Raje in showing a victory sign, at Ramlila Maidan. <a href="https://t.co/zpOSIT1s8y">pic.twitter.com/zpOSIT1s8y</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892455889367441622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta joined by Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan

Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal greets Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta as she arrives at Ramlila Maidan to attend her oath ceremony.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal greets Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta as she arrives at Ramlila Maidan to attend her oath ceremony. <a href="https://t.co/y6jSJLCaRO">pic.twitter.com/y6jSJLCaRO</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892456318797304160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

Swati Maliwal greets Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta as she arrives at Ramlila Maidan

Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta and BJP leader Parvesh Sahib Singh greet each other at Ramlila Maidan in Delhi. Parvesh Sahib Singh will also take oath today as part of her council of ministers.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta and BJP leader Parvesh Sahib Singh greet each other at Ramlila Maidan in Delhi. Parvesh Sahib Singh will also take oath today as part of her council of ministers. <a href="https://t.co/k41QI69r4n">pic.twitter.com/k41QI69r4n</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892454394458759436?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

Rekha Gupta and BJP leader Parvesh Sahib Singh greet each other at Ramlila Maidan 

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VIDEO | Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta offers prayers at Marghat Wale Hanuman Temple at Kashmere Gate ahead of taking oath. (Full video available on PTI Videos - <a href="https://t.co/n147TvrpG7">https://t.co/n147TvrpG7</a> <a href="https://t.co/EsUTL9BqyY">pic.twitter.com/EsUTL9BqyY</a>
&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1892445719992422719?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta offers prayers at Marghat Wale Hanuman Temple

Delhi Chief Minister Designate and BJP leader Rekha Gupta left her residence for the swearing-in ceremony taking place at Ramlila Maidan in the national capital on Thursday. Before reaching the maidan, the CM designate took out a public rally and showed a 'victory sign' for her party. Visuals from the rally showed hundreds of supporters giving her flowers or paintings.

Delhi CM designate Rekha Gupta leaves for swearing-in ceremony at Ramlila maidan

Delhi: At the swearing-in ceremony of Delhi CM Designate Rekha Gupta, BJP MP Ravi Kishan said, "PM Modi has sent a message to the entire world (by electing BJP leader Rekha Gupta as Delhi CM), and he always talks of empowering women...Today is a day of celebrations today...I congratulate everyone and the world will see the development of Delhi..."
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi: At the swearing-in ceremony of Delhi CM Designate Rekha Gupta, BJP MP Ravi Kishan said, "PM Modi has sent a message to the entire world (by electing BJP leader Rekha Gupta as Delhi CM), and he always talks of empowering women...Today is a day of celebrations&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/X50loqPID4">pic.twitter.com/X50loqPID4</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892449281724076287?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

'PM Modi  always talks of empowering women': BJP MP Ravi Kishan 

Delhi CM designate Rekha Gupta says, "It is a huge responsibility. I thank PM Modi and BJP high command for having faith in me... I will fulfil my responsibility with utmost honesty... My first priority is to complete all the commitments our party has made, and the second priority is that all our 48 MLAs will work as a team Modi. I never thought I would be a CM of Delhi... The previous corrupt government would have to give the account of each rupee belonging to &nbsp;the people..."
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi CM designate Rekha Gupta says, "It is a huge responsibility. I thank PM Modi and BJP high command for having faith in me... I will fulfil my responsibility with utmost honesty... My first priority is to complete all the commitments our party has made, and the&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/kkGVAL7nq5">pic.twitter.com/kkGVAL7nq5</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892395461635620898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

'Will fulfil my responsibility with utmost honesty', Delhi CM designate Rekha Gupta

BJP leader Parvesh Sahib Singh, who will take oath as a Delhi Minister today, says, "We have a huge responsibility towards Delhi. People of Delhi gave us immense love and blessings. After 27 years, BJP is going to form the govt in Delhi today. I thank PM Modi whose development has been trusted by the people. People of Delhi are confident that under the leadership of Narendra Modi, we will succeed in making Delhi the most beautiful capital of the world. I thank party chief JP Nadda, HM Amit Shah. Under the leadership, we received a good direction for Delhi and we formed the givt. I extend best wishes to all the workers of Delhi. Their hard work has borne fruits. I thank the people of Delhi who gave us 48 seats...We fulfill all the promises we made in our manifesto...I always says that I am a disciplined worker of the BJP and will always be one, I will be in the BJP till my last breath...I will shoulder whatever responsibility is given to me by the party..."
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | BJP leader Parvesh Sahib Singh, who will take oath as a Delhi Minister today, says, "We have a huge responsibility towards Delhi. People of Delhi gave us immense love and blessings. After 27 years, BJP is going to form the govt in Delhi today. I thank PM Modi whose&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/4UbOP77rLb">pic.twitter.com/4UbOP77rLb</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892449671668453504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

'We have huge responsibility towards Delhi', says BJP leader Parvesh Sahib Singh

BJP Mahila Morcha workers rejoice at Ramlila Maidan ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of CM-designate Rekha Gupta.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi swearing-in ceremony | BJP Mahila Morcha workers rejoice at Ramlila Maidan ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of CM-designate Rekha Gupta. <a href="https://t.co/Hr8gMubHzo">pic.twitter.com/Hr8gMubHzo</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892424745905209674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

BJP Mahila Morcha workers rejoice at Ramlila Maidan ahead of the swearing-in ceremony 

Delhi CM designate Rekha Gupta said, "It is a miracle, it is a new motivation and a new chapter. If I can be the CM, this means ways are open for all the women... Anyone who has been corrupt will have to give an account of each and every rupee..."
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Delhi CM designate Rekha Gupta says, "It is a miracle, it is a new motivation and a new chapter. If I can be the CM, this means ways are open for all the women... Anyone who has been corrupt will have to give an account of each and every rupee..." <a href="https://t.co/F1GUVRELVp">pic.twitter.com/F1GUVRELVp</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892401283887243524?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

'New motivation and a new chapter': Delhi CM designate Rekha Gupta 

Celebrations outside the residence of Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta. She is all set to take oath as the Chief Minister today at Ramlila Maidan.
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Celebrations outside the residence of Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta. She is all set to take oath as the Chief Minister today at Ramlila Maidan. <a href="https://t.co/VARDGtwkNm">pic.twitter.com/VARDGtwkNm</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1892395907393401005?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2025</a></blockquote>

Celebrations outside the residence of Delhi CM-designate Rekha Gupta

Rekha Gupta's Cabinet: Parvesh Verma, Ashish Sood, and 4 other BJP MLAs to be ministers in Delhi government
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/20/BjvIJygWmYIS91Zyblzq.png" alt=" Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma, Rekha Gupta andManjinder Singh Sirsa Photograph: (Combination created using images from agencies) ">
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-guptas-cabinet-parvesh-verma-ashish-sood-and-4-other-bjp-mlas-named-as-ministers-in-bjps-delhi-government-8738491">Rekha Gupta</a>, the incoming Delhi Chief Minister, will have in her cabinet Parvesh Verma who defeated AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal. The notification was released just hours before BJP leader Gupta&rsquo;s swearing-in ceremony. The Indian Union Home Ministry said that on the advice of the CM designate Rekha Gupta, six BJP MLAs are to take oath as ministers of the Delhi government.&nbsp;

Rekha Gupta's Cabinet: Parvesh Verma, Ashish Sood, and 4 other BJP MLAs to be ministers in Delhi government

Delhi New CM Rekha Gupta Oath Ceremony Live: Rekha Gupta was sworn in as Chief Minister at a ceremony in Ramlila Maidan in the national capital on February 20. 

Delhi New CM Rekha Gupta Oath Ceremony Live: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta, on Thursday (Feb 20), was sworn-in as Delhi Chief Minister in a grand ceremony at Ramlila Maidan.

Delhi New CM Oath Ceremony: Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi CM

Rekha Gupta will be sworn in as Delhi's Chief Minister on February 20 at Ramlila Maidan. The oath-taking ceremony will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Watch in for more details!

Delhi's fourth woman CM Rekha Gupta to take oath at Ramlila Maidan

Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Rekha Gupta sworn in as the new Delhi chief minister at the Ramlila Maidan on Thursday (Feb 20).
The 50-year-old politician, who secured a win from Delhi's Shalimar Bagh constituency, became Delhi's fourth female chief minister.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-new-cm-2025-rekha-gupta-oath-taking-ceremony-live-from-ramlila-maidan-parvesh-verma-as-deputy-chief-minister-20-february-8738523">Delhi New CM Oath Ceremony Live: Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi CM</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">How much wealth does the new CM possess?</h2>
Rekha Gupta, in an affidavit filed with the Election Commission of India, disclosed her total income as Rs 6,92,050 ($7980.13) for the financial year 2023-24. Additionally, she declared movable assets valued at Rs 1,25,73,289.50 ($144984.44).
Her affidavit filed before the poll panel stated that the BJP leader has loans worth Rs 48.44 lakh ($55856.87).
According to the affidavit, Rekha Gupta mentioned two residential properties, one of which is co-owned with her husband. The value of her immovable assets according to the Election Commission of India affidavit stands at Rs 2.30 crore ($265262.22). She does not own any vehicle, but has jewellery worth Rs 18 lakh ($20759.65).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-starmer-backs-zelensky-against-trumps-dictator-claims-rekha-gupta-to-be-sworn-in-as-delhi-cm-and-more-8738357">Morning news brief: Starmer backs Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' claims; Rekha Gupta to be sworn in as Delhi CM and more</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Criminal cases against Rekha Gupta</h2>
According to the ECI affidavit, Rekha Gupta has no criminal case against her.
Gupta, 50, is the second woman from the BJP to hold the post of chief minister of Delhi. A first-time MLA, Gupta contested the Shalimar Bagh constituency in the Delhi assembly elections against AAP's Bandana Kumari and won by 29,595 votes, marking the end of AAP&rsquo;s decade-long hold in the area.
Born in 1974, Gupta hails from Nandgarh village in Haryana&rsquo;s Jind district. In 1976, her family moved to Delhi, where she completed her primary and higher education. Her father was an officer in the State Bank of India.
Rekha Gupta started her political journey with Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), a student body affiliated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
In 2007, she won the Delhi Councillor elections from North Pitampura. Gupta has also served as General Secretary of BJP Mahila Morcha in Delhi and was part of its national executive committee.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News: Rekha Gupta, a BJP MLA, takes oath as Delhi's new chief minister, marking a significant moment at Ramlila Maidan on February , becoming the city's fourth female leader.

Bharatiya Janata Party MLA Rekha Gupta sworn in as the new Delhi chief minister at the Ramlila Maidan on Thursday (Feb 20). The 50-year-old politician, who secured a win from Delhi's Shalimar Bagh constituency, became Delhi's fourth female chief minister. Also read | Delhi New CM Oath Ceremony Live: Rekha Gupta sworn in as Delhi CM How much wealth does the new CM possess? Rekha Gupta, in an affidavit filed with the Election Commission of India, disclosed her total income as Rs 6,92,050 ($7980.13) for the financial year 2023-24. Additionally, she declared movable assets valued at Rs 1,25,73,289.50 ($144984.44). Her affidavit filed before the poll panel stated that the BJP leader has loans worth Rs 48.44 lakh ($55856.87). According to the affidavit, Rekha Gupta mentioned two residential properties, one of which is co-owned with her husband. The value of her immovable assets according to the Election Commission of India affidavit stands at Rs 2.30 crore ($265262.22). She does not own any vehicle, but has jewellery worth Rs 18 lakh ($20759.65). Also read | Morning news brief: Starmer backs Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' claims; Rekha Gupta to be sworn in as Delhi CM and more Criminal cases against Rekha Gupta According to the ECI affidavit, Rekha Gupta has no criminal case against her. Gupta, 50, is the second woman from the BJP to hold the post of chief minister of Delhi. A first-time MLA, Gupta contested the Shalimar Bagh constituency in the Delhi assembly elections against AAP's Bandana Kumari and won by 29,595 votes, marking the end of AAP’s decade-long hold in the area. Born in 1974, Gupta hails from Nandgarh village in Haryana’s Jind district. In 1976, her family moved to Delhi, where she completed her primary and higher education. Her father was an officer in the State Bank of India. Rekha Gupta started her political journey with Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), a student body affiliated to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). In 2007, she won the Delhi Councillor elections from North Pitampura. Gupta has also served as General Secretary of BJP Mahila Morcha in Delhi and was part of its national executive committee. (With inputs from agencies)

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta net worth. All you need to know

A Bangladesh Airlines on its way from Dhaka to Dubai on Wednesday (Feb 19) was forced to make an emergency landing at an airport in India's Nagpur due to technical issues.
The Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, as per a PTI report, had 396 passengers and 12 crew members on board.
A senior official at the Nagpur airport told PTI that the flight was diverted and made an emergency landing around midnight on Wednesday because of technical issues. Another official said that the passengers will be taken on another flight later in the day.
(More to follow)

A Bangladesh Airlines on its way from Dhaka to Dubai on Wednesday (Feb 19) was forced to make an emergency landing at an airport in India's Nagpur due to technical issues.

A Bangladesh Airlines on its way from Dhaka to Dubai on Wednesday (Feb 19) was forced to make an emergency landing at an airport in India's Nagpur due to technical issues. The Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, as per a PTI report, had 396 passengers and 12 crew members on board. A senior official at the Nagpur airport told PTI that the flight was diverted and made an emergency landing around midnight on Wednesday because of technical issues. Another official said that the passengers will be taken on another flight later in the day. (More to follow)

Bangladesh Airlines flight with 408 onboard forced to make emergency landing in India's Nagpur

Rekha Gupta, the incoming Delhi Chief Minister from Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday (Feb 20) assured that her government&rsquo;s promise of ₹2,500 ($28.83) monthly assistance to women would be fulfilled. Hours before her swearing-in ceremony, Gupta also vowed that the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government would be held accountable for things it did during its rule.
<h2>BJP&rsquo;s monthly support for women</h2>
Speaking to reporters outside her residence, Gupta said the first instalment of the monthly support would be credited to eligible women's accounts by March 8, which is observed as International Women's Day.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-guptas-cabinet-parvesh-verma-ashish-sood-and-4-other-bjp-mlas-named-as-ministers-in-bjps-delhi-government-8738491">Rekha Gupta's Cabinet: Parvesh Verma, Ashish Sood, and 4 other BJP MLAs to be ministers in Delhi government</a>
BJP in its manifesto had promised a monthly assistance of ₹2,500 ($28.83), aiming to outdo the Aam Aadmi Party's announcement of ₹2,100 ($24.21) monthly support if it came to power.
<h2>Rekha Gupta slams AAP</h2>
Gupta also slammed the outgoing AAP government and said, "They will have to give an account for each and every penny to the people."
The CM-designate, who was named for the post on Wednesday, said that delivering on the party's promises was her top priority.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-gupta-to-be-next-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-says-i-hope-she-8737527">Rekha Gupta to be next Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal says &lsquo;I hope she&hellip;&rsquo;</a>
"Fulfilling the dream of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the responsibility of all 48 BJP MLAs in the capital. We will definitely fulfil all our promises, including financial support for women. Women will 100 per cent get monetary support into their accounts by March 8," she said.
<h2>Rekha Gupta's cabinet gets six ministers</h2>
In a notification released just hours before BJP leader Rekha Gupta&rsquo;s swearing-in ceremony, the Indian Union Home Ministry announced that six BJP MLAs are to take oath as ministers of the Delhi government.&nbsp;
As per the notification, Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj, Kapil Mishra and Pankaj Kumar Singh will be ministers in Rekha Gupta&rsquo;s cabinet.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-gupta-named-next-delhi-chief-minister-indias-capital-gets-4th-woman-to-lead-government-8737229">Rekha Gupta named next Delhi Chief Minister, becomes fourth woman to lead Indian capital</a>
Parvesh Verma, who gained national attention after defeating AAP chief and former Delhi CM Kejriwal in the recent Delhi elections, is among the key faces in the new administration.&nbsp;
They will take oath alongside CM-designate Gupta on Thursday (Feb 20).
The grand ceremony will take place at Delhi&rsquo;s Ramlila Maidan and will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior Union ministers, and several chief ministers from BJP-led states.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | Incoming Delhi CM Rekha Gupta pledges to credit the first ₹2,500 monthly support for women by Women's Day, fulfilling BJP's promise to enhance financial aid.

Rekha Gupta, the incoming Delhi Chief Minister from Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday (Feb 20) assured that her government’s promise of ₹2,500 ($28.83) monthly assistance to women would be fulfilled. Hours before her swearing-in ceremony, Gupta also vowed that the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government would be held accountable for things it did during its rule. BJP’s monthly support for women Speaking to reporters outside her residence, Gupta said the first instalment of the monthly support would be credited to eligible women's accounts by March 8, which is observed as International Women's Day. Also read | Rekha Gupta's Cabinet: Parvesh Verma, Ashish Sood, and 4 other BJP MLAs to be ministers in Delhi government BJP in its manifesto had promised a monthly assistance of ₹2,500 ($28.83), aiming to outdo the Aam Aadmi Party's announcement of ₹2,100 ($24.21) monthly support if it came to power. Rekha Gupta slams AAP Gupta also slammed the outgoing AAP government and said, "They will have to give an account for each and every penny to the people." The CM-designate, who was named for the post on Wednesday, said that delivering on the party's promises was her top priority. Also read | Rekha Gupta to be next Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal says ‘I hope she…’ "Fulfilling the dream of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the responsibility of all 48 BJP MLAs in the capital. We will definitely fulfil all our promises, including financial support for women. Women will 100 per cent get monetary support into their accounts by March 8," she said. Rekha Gupta's cabinet gets six ministers In a notification released just hours before BJP leader Rekha Gupta’s swearing-in ceremony, the Indian Union Home Ministry announced that six BJP MLAs are to take oath as ministers of the Delhi government. As per the notification, Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj, Kapil Mishra and Pankaj Kumar Singh will be ministers in Rekha Gupta’s cabinet. Also read | Rekha Gupta named next Delhi Chief Minister, becomes fourth woman to lead Indian capital Parvesh Verma, who gained national attention after defeating AAP chief and former Delhi CM Kejriwal in the recent Delhi elections, is among the key faces in the new administration. They will take oath alongside CM-designate Gupta on Thursday (Feb 20). The grand ceremony will take place at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan and will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior Union ministers, and several chief ministers from BJP-led states. (With inputs from agencies)

Incoming Delhi CM Rekha Gupta promises first installment of ₹2,500 support for women will be credited by Women's Day

The Uttar Pradesh Police has registered cases against two social media accounts for allegedly posting and selling objectional videos of women pilgrims bathing at the Maha Kumbh. Watch this report for more details!

MahaKumbh Mela 2025: Videos of women bathing in Maha Kumbh up for sale

The Supreme Court on Wednesday adjourned the pleas against the appointments of the chief election commissioner (CEC) and election commissioners (EC) under the 2023 law.
A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh indicated that the matter would be listed after the Holi festival break due to paucity of time. However, no date was fixed for hearing the matter.
Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for petitioner NGO Association for Democratic Reforms, said it was an important issue which required an urgent consideration.
He said the matter involved a short legal question -- whether the 2023 Constitution bench verdict should be followed for the appointment of the CEC and ECs through a panel involving the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition and the Chief Justice of India or the 2023 law, which excludes the CJI from the panel.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/morning-news-brief-starmer-backs-zelensky-against-trumps-dictator-claims-rekha-gupta-to-be-sworn-in-as-delhi-cm-and-more-8738357">Morning news brief: Starmer backs Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' claims; Rekha Gupta to be sworn in as Delhi CM and more</a>
At around 3 pm, Justice Surya Kant told Bhushan that he would be sitting in a special bench and the court had numerous matters listed before the Holi break.
Bhushan requested the matter to be listed on any day in the coming week and assured the petitioners would not take more than an hour to advance submissions.
Advocate Varun Thakur, appearing for petitioner Jaya Thakur, also mentioned the matter for an urgent hearing saying it was "very important for the survival of democracy".
Justice Surya Kant said, for the court, all matters were equally important and no single matter was superior to others.
Earlier, solicitor general Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, expressed his inability to address the court on the issue saying he was appearing before the Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna on the issue of arbitration.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gbs-outbreak-claims-2-more-lives-in-pune-india-toll-rises-to-23-8738268">GBS outbreak claims two more lives in Pune, India toll rises to 23</a>
On February 18, the top court said it would take up on "priority basis" the pleas against the appointments of the CEC and ECs under the 2023 law.
Bhushan said the government by appointing the new CEC and EC under the 2023 law was making a "mockery of democracy".
On February 17, the government appointed EC Gyanesh Kumar as the next CEC. Kumar is the first CEC to be appointed under the new law and his term would run till January 26, 2029, days before the EC is expected to announce the schedule of the next Lok Sabha election.
Vivek Joshi, a 1989-batch Haryana-cadre IAS officer, was appointed as an election commissioner.
Born on May 21, 1966, Joshi (58) would serve in the poll panel till 2031. According to the law, a CEC or an EC retires at 65 or could have a tenure in the poll panel for six years.
On February 12, the top court fixed February 19 to hear pleas against the appointment of the CEC and EC under the 2023 law saying if anything happened in the interregnum, the consequences were bound to follow.
It said the issue would be decided on merit and finally.
Bhushan referred to the 2023 verdict, saying it held that the election commissioners had to be selected for appointment by an independent panel comprising the prime minister, Leader of Opposition and Chief Justice of India.
On March 15, 2024, the top court refused to stay the appointments of the new ECs under the 2023 law which excluded the CJI from the selection panel and deferred the hearing on a batch of pleas against the appointments.
The apex court told the petitioners that the March 2, 2023 verdict directed for the three-member panel comprising the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition and the CJI to operate till Parliament enacted a law.
The apex court's verdict held that leaving the appointment of the ECs and CEC in the hands of the executive would be detrimental to the health of the country's democracy and the holding of free and fair elections.
The NGO challenged the CJI's exclusion and said the election commission should be insulated from "political" and "executive interference" for maintaining a healthy democracy.
ADR's plea alleged the verdict was overruled by the Centre without removing its basis and the composition of the selection committee under the new law which amounted to excessive interference of the executive in the appointments and was detrimental to the independence of the poll panel.
Former IAS officers Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Sandhu were recommended to be appointed as ECs in 2024 by a selection panel chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the new law.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
&nbsp;

India News: The Supreme Court has postponed hearings on challenges to the law concerning the appointments of the chief election commissioner and election commissioners.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday adjourned the pleas against the appointments of the chief election commissioner (CEC) and election commissioners (EC) under the 2023 law. A bench of Justices Surya Kant and N Kotiswar Singh indicated that the matter would be listed after the Holi festival break due to paucity of time. However, no date was fixed for hearing the matter. Advocate Prashant Bhushan, appearing for petitioner NGO Association for Democratic Reforms, said it was an important issue which required an urgent consideration. He said the matter involved a short legal question -- whether the 2023 Constitution bench verdict should be followed for the appointment of the CEC and ECs through a panel involving the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition and the Chief Justice of India or the 2023 law, which excludes the CJI from the panel. Also read | Morning news brief: Starmer backs Zelensky against Trump's 'dictator' claims; Rekha Gupta to be sworn in as Delhi CM and more At around 3 pm, Justice Surya Kant told Bhushan that he would be sitting in a special bench and the court had numerous matters listed before the Holi break. Bhushan requested the matter to be listed on any day in the coming week and assured the petitioners would not take more than an hour to advance submissions. Advocate Varun Thakur, appearing for petitioner Jaya Thakur, also mentioned the matter for an urgent hearing saying it was "very important for the survival of democracy". Justice Surya Kant said, for the court, all matters were equally important and no single matter was superior to others. Earlier, solicitor general Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Centre, expressed his inability to address the court on the issue saying he was appearing before the Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Sanjiv Khanna on the issue of arbitration. Also read | GBS outbreak claims two more lives in Pune, India toll rises to 23 On February 18, the top court said it would take up on "priority basis" the pleas against the appointments of the CEC and ECs under the 2023 law. Bhushan said the government by appointing the new CEC and EC under the 2023 law was making a "mockery of democracy". On February 17, the government appointed EC Gyanesh Kumar as the next CEC. Kumar is the first CEC to be appointed under the new law and his term would run till January 26, 2029, days before the EC is expected to announce the schedule of the next Lok Sabha election. Vivek Joshi, a 1989-batch Haryana-cadre IAS officer, was appointed as an election commissioner. Born on May 21, 1966, Joshi (58) would serve in the poll panel till 2031. According to the law, a CEC or an EC retires at 65 or could have a tenure in the poll panel for six years. On February 12, the top court fixed February 19 to hear pleas against the appointment of the CEC and EC under the 2023 law saying if anything happened in the interregnum, the consequences were bound to follow. It said the issue would be decided on merit and finally. Bhushan referred to the 2023 verdict, saying it held that the election commissioners had to be selected for appointment by an independent panel comprising the prime minister, Leader of Opposition and Chief Justice of India. On March 15, 2024, the top court refused to stay the appointments of the new ECs under the 2023 law which excluded the CJI from the selection panel and deferred the hearing on a batch of pleas against the appointments. The apex court told the petitioners that the March 2, 2023 verdict directed for the three-member panel comprising the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition and the CJI to operate till Parliament enacted a law. The apex court's verdict held that leaving the appointment of the ECs and CEC in the hands of the executive would be detrimental to the health of the country's democracy and the holding of free and fair elections. The NGO challenged the CJI's exclusion and said the election commission should be insulated from "political" and "executive interference" for maintaining a healthy democracy. ADR's plea alleged the verdict was overruled by the Centre without removing its basis and the composition of the selection committee under the new law which amounted to excessive interference of the executive in the appointments and was detrimental to the independence of the poll panel. Former IAS officers Gyanesh Kumar and Sukhbir Sandhu were recommended to be appointed as ECs in 2024 by a selection panel chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi under the new law. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Supreme Court adjourns pleas challenging validity of CEC appointment Law

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Wednesday said he has empowered the Corps Commanders deployed in formations along the China border to resolve issues at their level and avoid violence.
"What I have done is to empower all the Corps Commanders along the Line of Actual Control to make sure that wherever issues can be resolved at their level where there is a misinterpretation of understanding and which can escalate to violence, that should be something controlled," Gen Dwivedi said in ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash.
He talked about the disengagement and de-escalation along the India-China border and how, in recent times, the Indian Army has strengthened its presence around the border.
When asked about the present-day boundary situation regarding disengagement and de-escalation with China, the COAS explained the disengagement part.
"In April 2020, some places we had difference of perception and we had to lead to violent means. So when that happened...both sides were in contact with each other and over a period of time, both sides then decided to get back. So when they got back, then it's called a disengagement," he said.
"But some places we felt there's a requirement kind of resolve that issue further...on October 21, 2024, we signed those documents or agreements and thereafter wherever such issues were still pending, we could resolve that. Once you have done that, what is the next stage...like I keep saying that both sides, in their own side - that is China side and India side - what you have done, you have constructed billeting, you have constructed a few roads over a period of time. So what happened, the capability to bring the troops forward changes vis-a-vis what it was earlier. If that is the case, what do you do? You define the new definition that how do we go about as far as this is concerned," he said.
The Army Chief said though the patrolling, grazing rights and other issues have been resolved, there is a need to harmonize this and that's "when the military side you have seen that from the Battalion Commander till Corps Commander level.. we have allowed people to talk to each other so that wherever there is some kind of a doubt we can raise the level and resolve it but all this is dependent on the Special Representatives meeting which took place under NSA".
He said empowerment has been given to WMCC (Working Mechanism for Consultation &amp; Coordination on India-China Border Affairs).
The Army Chief said Special Representatives meeting of the two countries had earlier taken place in 2019-20 and after that it was put on hold and then eventually resumed in December last year where "some directions have been given on how to go about resolving this".
"The WMCC, that is headed by the Joint Secretary of the MEA, under which one of the reps of the military is also there. Both sides sit together and provide us the strategic guidance. So as and when they provide us the strategic guidance, based on that, we'll move ahead," he said.
"Do we need to reduce troops, more confidence building measures...all this will take place once we come to a common point. Okay, from there we will start and these are the steps which will follow. Once the steps are decided how to go about it, we'll move ahead," he added.
Asked about his remarks that the terrain around the Indo-China border has been "doctored' by either China or India, General Dwivedi noted that the Indian Army has not moved into a disputed territory, but instead, have just become "comfortable" and "assertive".
"If you take your mind back to 2007, or even 2001, earlier ITBP (Indio-Tibetian Border Police) used to control the area, the Indian Army was negligible but over a period of time we have moved ahead, similarly China also," General Dwivedi said.
Explaining the process of expanding the habitats and creating infrastructure on the LAC (Line of Actual Control) for soldiers, the COAS said "when you have more soldiers, you have billeting (assigning quarters) for them, you require transportation for them, roads and tracks are required".
"It is not that we have come to a disputed (area) where there are some issues. Wherever we are, we have made ourselves assertive and comfortable. If all that is the case, then the terrain will be doctored because you have to make the roads, billeting, since it has been done by both the sides, therefore, that is what I wanted to say," he added.
He further commented on the stockpiling of resources, saying that this has happened due to there being more soldiers in the area."Lets say, earlier you had 100 troops, now you have a thousand troops. You need ration, storage for thousand people. Let's say if tomorrow something critical comes up, then you have another 200 people coming in. Now you have to arrange for their stay also, their ration and their fighting capabilities...Both sides are doing this," he told ANI.
Recently, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri had visited Beijing to talk with Chinese officials and discussed the next steps of bilateral relations, including in the political, economic, and people-to-people domains.
India and China had reached an agreement in October on patrolling arrangements in the Depsang Plains and Demchok, two friction points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The understanding was reached after earlier disengagement in other friction points in eastern Ladakh following meetings at diplomatic and military levels.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi emphasises efforts for border de-escalation with China, empowering Corps Commanders to resolve issues and prevent violence along the LAC.

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Wednesday said he has empowered the Corps Commanders deployed in formations along the China border to resolve issues at their level and avoid violence. "What I have done is to empower all the Corps Commanders along the Line of Actual Control to make sure that wherever issues can be resolved at their level where there is a misinterpretation of understanding and which can escalate to violence, that should be something controlled," Gen Dwivedi said in ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash. He talked about the disengagement and de-escalation along the India-China border and how, in recent times, the Indian Army has strengthened its presence around the border. When asked about the present-day boundary situation regarding disengagement and de-escalation with China, the COAS explained the disengagement part. "In April 2020, some places we had difference of perception and we had to lead to violent means. So when that happened...both sides were in contact with each other and over a period of time, both sides then decided to get back. So when they got back, then it's called a disengagement," he said. "But some places we felt there's a requirement kind of resolve that issue further...on October 21, 2024, we signed those documents or agreements and thereafter wherever such issues were still pending, we could resolve that. Once you have done that, what is the next stage...like I keep saying that both sides, in their own side - that is China side and India side - what you have done, you have constructed billeting, you have constructed a few roads over a period of time. So what happened, the capability to bring the troops forward changes vis-a-vis what it was earlier. If that is the case, what do you do? You define the new definition that how do we go about as far as this is concerned," he said. The Army Chief said though the patrolling, grazing rights and other issues have been resolved, there is a need to harmonize this and that's "when the military side you have seen that from the Battalion Commander till Corps Commander level.. we have allowed people to talk to each other so that wherever there is some kind of a doubt we can raise the level and resolve it but all this is dependent on the Special Representatives meeting which took place under NSA". He said empowerment has been given to WMCC (Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs). The Army Chief said Special Representatives meeting of the two countries had earlier taken place in 2019-20 and after that it was put on hold and then eventually resumed in December last year where "some directions have been given on how to go about resolving this". "The WMCC, that is headed by the Joint Secretary of the MEA, under which one of the reps of the military is also there. Both sides sit together and provide us the strategic guidance. So as and when they provide us the strategic guidance, based on that, we'll move ahead," he said. "Do we need to reduce troops, more confidence building measures...all this will take place once we come to a common point. Okay, from there we will start and these are the steps which will follow. Once the steps are decided how to go about it, we'll move ahead," he added. Asked about his remarks that the terrain around the Indo-China border has been "doctored' by either China or India, General Dwivedi noted that the Indian Army has not moved into a disputed territory, but instead, have just become "comfortable" and "assertive". "If you take your mind back to 2007, or even 2001, earlier ITBP (Indio-Tibetian Border Police) used to control the area, the Indian Army was negligible but over a period of time we have moved ahead, similarly China also," General Dwivedi said. Explaining the process of expanding the habitats and creating infrastructure on the LAC (Line of Actual Control) for soldiers, the COAS said "when you have more soldiers, you have billeting (assigning quarters) for them, you require transportation for them, roads and tracks are required". "It is not that we have come to a disputed (area) where there are some issues. Wherever we are, we have made ourselves assertive and comfortable. If all that is the case, then the terrain will be doctored because you have to make the roads, billeting, since it has been done by both the sides, therefore, that is what I wanted to say," he added. He further commented on the stockpiling of resources, saying that this has happened due to there being more soldiers in the area."Lets say, earlier you had 100 troops, now you have a thousand troops. You need ration, storage for thousand people. Let's say if tomorrow something critical comes up, then you have another 200 people coming in. Now you have to arrange for their stay also, their ration and their fighting capabilities...Both sides are doing this," he told ANI. Recently, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri had visited Beijing to talk with Chinese officials and discussed the next steps of bilateral relations, including in the political, economic, and people-to-people domains. India and China had reached an agreement in October on patrolling arrangements in the Depsang Plains and Demchok, two friction points along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The understanding was reached after earlier disengagement in other friction points in eastern Ladakh following meetings at diplomatic and military levels. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi highlights border de-escalation efforts with China

Rekha Gupta, the incoming Delhi chief minister from India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, will have in her cabinet Parvesh Verma, who defeated Aam Aadmi Party supremo Arvind Kejriwal. The notification was released just hours before Gupta&rsquo;s swearing-in ceremony on Thursday (Feb 20). The Indian Union Home Ministry said that on the advice of the CM-designate Rekha Gupta, six BJP MLAs are to take oath as ministers of the Delhi government.&nbsp;
<h2>Who are the six new Delhi ministers?</h2>
As per the Union Home Ministry notification, BJP MLAs Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj, Kapil Mishra and Pankaj Kumar Singh will be ministers in Rekha Gupta&rsquo;s cabinet.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-gupta-to-be-next-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-says-i-hope-she-8737527">Rekha Gupta to be next Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal says &lsquo;I hope she&hellip;&rsquo;</a>
Parvesh Verma, who gained national attention after defeating AAP chief and former Delhi CM Kejriwal in the recent Delhi elections, is among the key faces in the new administration. Son of former Delhi chief minister Sahib Singh Verma, he was also a member of Lok Sabha, India's lower house of parliament.
The ministers will take oath alongside CM-designate Gupta on Thursday (Feb 20).
The grand ceremony will take place at Delhi&rsquo;s Ramlila Maidan and will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior union ministers, and several chief ministers from BJP-led states.
<h2>Delhi's fourth female chief minister</h2>
Rekha Gupta, a first-time MLA from Shalimar Bagh, will be Delhi's fourth woman chief minister..
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-gupta-named-next-delhi-chief-minister-indias-capital-gets-4th-woman-to-lead-government-8737229">Rekha Gupta named next Delhi Chief Minister, becomes fourth woman to lead Indian capital</a>
Expressing gratitude towards the BJP leadership, particularly Prime Minister Modi, for entrusting her with the role of Delhi&rsquo;s Chief Minister, she said: "I want to thank the party high command, PM Modi, and the people of Delhi for supporting me and choosing me. A huge change is going to come in Delhi, the golden period of the city is going to come... Fulfilling PM Modi's vision and the commitment that we have made to the people is my goal and priority..."
&ldquo;I am thankful to the party high command, PM Modi, and the people of Delhi for their support. A huge transformation is on the horizon for Delhi. The city is about to witness its golden period,&rdquo; Gupta stated. She further pledged to fulfill the commitments made to Delhi residents and align her administration with the Prime Minister&rsquo;s vision.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-chief-general-upendra-dwivedi-highlights-border-de-escalation-efforts-with-china-8738572">Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi highlights border de-escalation efforts with China</a>
&ldquo;PM Narendra Modi has shown immense faith in an ordinary party worker and daughter like me. I will stand up to his expectations. I want to thank the party leadership and PM Narendra Modi who showed immense faith in a commoner like me and bestowed such a big responsibility on me... My story can be an inspiration for every woman, that a common middle-class woman can also be given a chance to reach the top leadership of the party...,&ldquo; she added.
(With inputs from agencies)

India News | Discover the newly appointed ministers in Rekha Gupta's cabinet as BJP MLAs Parvesh Verma and Ashish Sood take oath alongside the incoming Delhi chief minister

Rekha Gupta, the incoming Delhi chief minister from India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, will have in her cabinet Parvesh Verma, who defeated Aam Aadmi Party supremo Arvind Kejriwal. The notification was released just hours before Gupta’s swearing-in ceremony on Thursday (Feb 20). The Indian Union Home Ministry said that on the advice of the CM-designate Rekha Gupta, six BJP MLAs are to take oath as ministers of the Delhi government. Who are the six new Delhi ministers? As per the Union Home Ministry notification, BJP MLAs Parvesh Sahib Singh Verma, Ashish Sood, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Ravinder Indraj, Kapil Mishra and Pankaj Kumar Singh will be ministers in Rekha Gupta’s cabinet. Also read | Rekha Gupta to be next Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal says ‘I hope she…’ Parvesh Verma, who gained national attention after defeating AAP chief and former Delhi CM Kejriwal in the recent Delhi elections, is among the key faces in the new administration. Son of former Delhi chief minister Sahib Singh Verma, he was also a member of Lok Sabha, India's lower house of parliament. The ministers will take oath alongside CM-designate Gupta on Thursday (Feb 20). The grand ceremony will take place at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan and will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, senior union ministers, and several chief ministers from BJP-led states. Delhi's fourth female chief minister Rekha Gupta, a first-time MLA from Shalimar Bagh, will be Delhi's fourth woman chief minister.. Also read | Rekha Gupta named next Delhi Chief Minister, becomes fourth woman to lead Indian capital Expressing gratitude towards the BJP leadership, particularly Prime Minister Modi, for entrusting her with the role of Delhi’s Chief Minister, she said: "I want to thank the party high command, PM Modi, and the people of Delhi for supporting me and choosing me. A huge change is going to come in Delhi, the golden period of the city is going to come... Fulfilling PM Modi's vision and the commitment that we have made to the people is my goal and priority..." “I am thankful to the party high command, PM Modi, and the people of Delhi for their support. A huge transformation is on the horizon for Delhi. The city is about to witness its golden period,” Gupta stated. She further pledged to fulfill the commitments made to Delhi residents and align her administration with the Prime Minister’s vision. Also read | Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi highlights border de-escalation efforts with China “PM Narendra Modi has shown immense faith in an ordinary party worker and daughter like me. I will stand up to his expectations. I want to thank the party leadership and PM Narendra Modi who showed immense faith in a commoner like me and bestowed such a big responsibility on me... My story can be an inspiration for every woman, that a common middle-class woman can also be given a chance to reach the top leadership of the party...,“ she added. (With inputs from agencies)

Rekha Gupta's Cabinet: Parvesh Verma, Ashish Sood, 4 other BJP MLAs to be ministers in Delhi government

The Lokayukta police probing the MUDA site allotment case on Wednesday said the charges against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his wife Parvathi could not be proved for want of evidence.
Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, R Ashoka, addressing the media said the Lokayukta report giving clean chit to Siddaramaiah was on the expected lines, while the petitioner in the case, activist Snehamayi Krishna, told PTI: "Only those officials who have sold their conscience can give such a report".
The probing officers said they have submitted the final report to the High Court.
"Since the above allegations against accused-1 to accused-4 in the case have not been proven due to lack of evidence, the final report will be submitted to the High Court," the Lokayukta police said in a letter to Krishna.
Besides Siddaramaiah and his wife, his brother-in-law Mallikarjuna Swamy and the land owner Devaraju are the accused.
The Lokayukta police said that further investigation will be conducted into the allegations of Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) providing compensatory plots in the ratio of 50:50 from 2016 to 2024 and an additional final report will be submitted to the High Court under Section 173 (8) CrPC.
According to Krishna, the Lokayukta police is likely to submit the report on Thursday.
In the MUDA site allotment case, it is alleged that compensatory sites were allotted to Siddaramaiah's wife in an upmarket area in Mysuru, which had higher property value as compared to the location of her land which had been "acquired" by the MUDA.
The MUDA had allotted plots to Parvathi under a 50:50 ratio scheme in lieu of 3.16 acres of her land, where it developed a residential layout.
Under the controversial scheme, MUDA allotted 50 per cent of developed land to the land losers in lieu of undeveloped land acquired from them for forming residential layouts.
It is alleged that Parvathi had no legal title over this 3.16 acres of land at survey number 464 of Kasare village, Kasaba hobli of Mysuru taluk.
The Lokayukta as well as the ED are probing the matter simultaneously.
Reacting to the report, Krishna said, "The Lokayukta officials, who were ready to submit the report, which the entire country had been waiting for, have given me a notice. It seems that there is a lack of evidence for the allegations I have made." "Only those officials who have sold their conscience can give such a report. This case is a blatant example of how the investigating authorities, who are under the 'influence', act as if they have no idea what evidence is sufficient to prove the allegations," the activist alleged.
BJP leader Ashoka said the Lokayukta report giving clean chit to Siddaramaiah was on the expected lines.
"Since the police officers in the Lokayukta are from the state cadre, they too need promotions and postings. Hence, they have to oblige," he said, addressing a press conference.
Ashoka said only a CBI probe can bring out the facts.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

The Lokayukta clears Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and his wife of involvement in the MUDA site allotment case, citing insufficient evidence for the allegations made.

The Lokayukta police probing the MUDA site allotment case on Wednesday said the charges against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his wife Parvathi could not be proved for want of evidence. Leader of Opposition in the Assembly, R Ashoka, addressing the media said the Lokayukta report giving clean chit to Siddaramaiah was on the expected lines, while the petitioner in the case, activist Snehamayi Krishna, told PTI: "Only those officials who have sold their conscience can give such a report". The probing officers said they have submitted the final report to the High Court. "Since the above allegations against accused-1 to accused-4 in the case have not been proven due to lack of evidence, the final report will be submitted to the High Court," the Lokayukta police said in a letter to Krishna. Besides Siddaramaiah and his wife, his brother-in-law Mallikarjuna Swamy and the land owner Devaraju are the accused. The Lokayukta police said that further investigation will be conducted into the allegations of Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) providing compensatory plots in the ratio of 50:50 from 2016 to 2024 and an additional final report will be submitted to the High Court under Section 173 (8) CrPC. According to Krishna, the Lokayukta police is likely to submit the report on Thursday. In the MUDA site allotment case, it is alleged that compensatory sites were allotted to Siddaramaiah's wife in an upmarket area in Mysuru, which had higher property value as compared to the location of her land which had been "acquired" by the MUDA. The MUDA had allotted plots to Parvathi under a 50:50 ratio scheme in lieu of 3.16 acres of her land, where it developed a residential layout. Under the controversial scheme, MUDA allotted 50 per cent of developed land to the land losers in lieu of undeveloped land acquired from them for forming residential layouts. It is alleged that Parvathi had no legal title over this 3.16 acres of land at survey number 464 of Kasare village, Kasaba hobli of Mysuru taluk. The Lokayukta as well as the ED are probing the matter simultaneously. Reacting to the report, Krishna said, "The Lokayukta officials, who were ready to submit the report, which the entire country had been waiting for, have given me a notice. It seems that there is a lack of evidence for the allegations I have made." "Only those officials who have sold their conscience can give such a report. This case is a blatant example of how the investigating authorities, who are under the 'influence', act as if they have no idea what evidence is sufficient to prove the allegations," the activist alleged. BJP leader Ashoka said the Lokayukta report giving clean chit to Siddaramaiah was on the expected lines. "Since the police officers in the Lokayukta are from the state cadre, they too need promotions and postings. Hence, they have to oblige," he said, addressing a press conference. Ashoka said only a CBI probe can bring out the facts. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Lokayukta gives clean chit to Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah in MUDA allotment probe

BJP MLA Rekha Gupta set to become fourth woman chief minister of Delhi

US President Donald Trump has once again denounced the Biden administration's decision to allocate $21 million to India to boost "voter turnout", questioning the necessity of such funding.&nbsp;
He also quipped if his predecessor was "trying to get somebody else elected".
"Why do we need to spend $21 million on voter turnout in India? I guess they were trying to get somebody else elected. We have got to tell the Indian Government... This is a total breakthrough," he said at the FII PRIORITY Summit in Miami on Wednesday (Feb 19).
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7cta1ao-cn12icyy-2dbzasn6">
President Trump reads some examples of the massive fraud, waste and abuse his administration has CUT from the federal government. PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT. <a href="https://t.co/br9a1AKihY">pic.twitter.com/br9a1AKihY</a>
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1892350282182410728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2025</a></blockquote>
His remarks come a day after Trump defended the decision by the Elon Musk-led US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to cancel the $21 million funding.&nbsp;
Trump questioned the use of US taxpayers' money for this initiative, sparking a debate about foreign interference in India's electoral process.
"Why are we giving $21 million to India? They got a lot more money. They are one of the highest taxing countries in the world in terms of us; we can hardly get in there because their tariffs are so high. I have a lot of respect for India and their Prime Minister, but giving $21 million for voter turnout? In India? What about voter turnout here?" Trump said at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7ct9mob-zpy4cvci-86ycovlo">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | US President Donald Trump says, "Why are we giving $21 million to India? They have a lot more money. They are one of the highest taxing countries in the world in terms of us; we can hardly get in there because their tariffs are so high. I have a lot of respect for India&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/W26OEGEejT">pic.twitter.com/W26OEGEejT</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1891968054420177129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-21-million-doge-cut-have-lot-of-respect-for-india-but-8734405">Also read: Trump defends $21 million DOGE cut; 'Have lot of respect for India, but...'</a>
<h2>Musk-led DOGE cancels $21 million intended for 'voter turnout in India'</h2>
Musk-led US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) announced the decision to cancel the $21 million funding allocation aimed at boosting "voter turnout in India" on Saturday (Feb 15).
The official DOGE handle on X announced the cancellation of various US taxpayer-funded expenditures, including the notable $21 million allocation for "voter turnout in India".
"US taxpayer dollars were going to be spent on the following items, all of which have been cancelled," the Musk-led department announced.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7ctba0d-eifrvp2g-s5wzvvvb">
US taxpayer dollars were going to be spent on the following items, all which have been cancelled: - $10M for "Mozambique voluntary medical male circumcision" - $9.7M for UC Berkeley to develop "a cohort of Cambodian youth with enterprise driven skills" - $2.3M for "strengthening&hellip;
&mdash; Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) <a href="https://twitter.com/DOGE/status/1890849405932077378?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
The cancelled funding was part of a larger list of expenditures scrapped by DOGE, which also includes:
- $10M for "Mozambique voluntary medical male circumcision" - $9.7M for UC Berkeley to develop "a cohort of Cambodian youth with enterprise driven skills" - $2.3M for "strengthening independent voices in Cambodia" - $32M to the Prague Civil Society Centre - $40M for "gender equality and women empowerment hub" - $14M for "improving public procurement" in Serbia - $486M to the &ldquo;Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening,&rdquo; including $22M for "inclusive and participatory political process" in Moldova and $21M for voter turnout in India - $29M to "strenghening political landscape in Bangladesh" - $20M for "fiscal federalism" in Nepal - $19M for "biodiversity conversation" in Nepal - $1.5M for "voter confidence" in Liberia - $14M for "social cohesion" in Mali - $2.5M for "inclusive democracies in Southern Africa" - $47M for "improving learning outcomes in Asia" - $2M to develop "sustainable recycling models" to "increase socio-economic cohesion among marginalized communities of Kosovo Roma, Ashkali, and Egypt"
<h2>BJP responds</h2>
The Bharatiya Janata Party labelled the now-cancelled $21 million funding for "voter turnout in India" as "external interference" in India's electoral process.&nbsp;
BJP leader Amit Malviya criticised the initial funding allocation and alleged "systematic infiltration" of Indian institutions by foreign forces.
"$21M for voter turnout? This definitely is external interference in India's electoral process. Who gains from this? Not the ruling party for sure!" his post on X read.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m7ctbxnd-cv77ysmc-sbze7m8c">
Once again, it is George Soros, a known associate of the Congress party and the Gandhis, whose shadow looms over our electoral process. In 2012, under the leadership of S.Y. Quraishi, the Election Commission signed an MoU with The International Foundation for Electoral&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/PO13Iyroee">https://t.co/PO13Iyroee</a> <a href="https://t.co/gdgAQoDbPh">pic.twitter.com/gdgAQoDbPh</a>
&mdash; Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) <a href="https://twitter.com/amitmalviya/status/1890989529781215669?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
He also criticised billionaire investor and philanthropist George Soros, specifically targeting his alleged network of global influence through the Open Society Foundations.&nbsp;
"Once again, it is George Soros, a known associate of the Congress party and the Gandhis, whose shadow looms over our electoral process," Malviya claimed.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Musk-led US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) announced the decision to cancel the $21 million funding allocation aimed at boosting "voter turnout in India" on Saturday (Feb 15).

US President Donald Trump has once again denounced the Biden administration's decision to allocate $21 million to India to boost "voter turnout", questioning the necessity of such funding. He also quipped if his predecessor was "trying to get somebody else elected". "Why do we need to spend $21 million on voter turnout in India? I guess they were trying to get somebody else elected. We have got to tell the Indian Government... This is a total breakthrough," he said at the FII PRIORITY Summit in Miami on Wednesday (Feb 19). President Trump reads some examples of the massive fraud, waste and abuse his administration has CUT from the federal government. PROMISES MADE, PROMISES KEPT. pic.twitter.com/br9a1AKihY — Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) February 19, 2025 His remarks come a day after Trump defended the decision by the Elon Musk-led US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to cancel the $21 million funding. Trump questioned the use of US taxpayers' money for this initiative, sparking a debate about foreign interference in India's electoral process. "Why are we giving $21 million to India? They got a lot more money. They are one of the highest taxing countries in the world in terms of us; we can hardly get in there because their tariffs are so high. I have a lot of respect for India and their Prime Minister, but giving $21 million for voter turnout? In India? What about voter turnout here?" Trump said at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. #WATCH | US President Donald Trump says, "Why are we giving $21 million to India? They have a lot more money. They are one of the highest taxing countries in the world in terms of us; we can hardly get in there because their tariffs are so high. I have a lot of respect for India… pic.twitter.com/W26OEGEejT — ANI (@ANI) February 18, 2025 Also read: Trump defends $21 million DOGE cut; 'Have lot of respect for India, but...' Musk-led DOGE cancels $21 million intended for 'voter turnout in India' Musk-led US Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) announced the decision to cancel the $21 million funding allocation aimed at boosting "voter turnout in India" on Saturday (Feb 15). The official DOGE handle on X announced the cancellation of various US taxpayer-funded expenditures, including the notable $21 million allocation for "voter turnout in India". "US taxpayer dollars were going to be spent on the following items, all of which have been cancelled," the Musk-led department announced. US taxpayer dollars were going to be spent on the following items, all which have been cancelled: - $10M for "Mozambique voluntary medical male circumcision" - $9.7M for UC Berkeley to develop "a cohort of Cambodian youth with enterprise driven skills" - $2.3M for "strengthening… — Department of Government Efficiency (@DOGE) February 15, 2025 The cancelled funding was part of a larger list of expenditures scrapped by DOGE, which also includes: - $10M for "Mozambique voluntary medical male circumcision" - $9.7M for UC Berkeley to develop "a cohort of Cambodian youth with enterprise driven skills" - $2.3M for "strengthening independent voices in Cambodia" - $32M to the Prague Civil Society Centre - $40M for "gender equality and women empowerment hub" - $14M for "improving public procurement" in Serbia - $486M to the “Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening,” including $22M for "inclusive and participatory political process" in Moldova and $21M for voter turnout in India - $29M to "strenghening political landscape in Bangladesh" - $20M for "fiscal federalism" in Nepal - $19M for "biodiversity conversation" in Nepal - $1.5M for "voter confidence" in Liberia - $14M for "social cohesion" in Mali - $2.5M for "inclusive democracies in Southern Africa" - $47M for "improving learning outcomes in Asia" - $2M to develop "sustainable recycling models" to "increase socio-economic cohesion among marginalized communities of Kosovo Roma, Ashkali, and Egypt" BJP responds The Bharatiya Janata Party labelled the now-cancelled $21 million funding for "voter turnout in India" as "external interference" in India's electoral process. BJP leader Amit Malviya criticised the initial funding allocation and alleged "systematic infiltration" of Indian institutions by foreign forces. "$21M for voter turnout? This definitely is external interference in India's electoral process. Who gains from this? Not the ruling party for sure!" his post on X read. Once again, it is George Soros, a known associate of the Congress party and the Gandhis, whose shadow looms over our electoral process. In 2012, under the leadership of S.Y. Quraishi, the Election Commission signed an MoU with The International Foundation for Electoral… https://t.co/PO13Iyroee pic.twitter.com/gdgAQoDbPh — Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) February 16, 2025 He also criticised billionaire investor and philanthropist George Soros, specifically targeting his alleged network of global influence through the Open Society Foundations. "Once again, it is George Soros, a known associate of the Congress party and the Gandhis, whose shadow looms over our electoral process," Malviya claimed. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump alludes to USAID interference in India's elections: 'They were trying to get somebody else elected'

Two patients undergoing treatment for Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) in Pune hospitals have succumbed to the illness over the past two days, bringing the total number of fatalities linked to the outbreak to 11 in the city.
A woman diagnosed with GBS passed away at a city hospital on Tuesday (Feb 18), while a man from Daund in Pune district succumbed to suspected GBS at the state-run Sassoon General Hospital on Monday (Feb 17).
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-sell-excess-tickets-delhi-high-court-questions-authorities-over-stampede-8737771">&lsquo;Why sell excess tickets?&rsquo;: Delhi High Court questions authorities over stampede</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Two more succumb in Pune</h2>
A woman from Nandedgaon, the epicentre of the Guillain-Barre Syndrome outbreak, initially experienced diarrhoea on January 15 but recovered without needing medical treatment.
According to the officials, on January 22, she developed weakness in the lower limbs and was admitted to the hospital where she was given treatment for GBS. On January 25, she was shifted to another hospital where she was put on life support. She died during treatment on February 18.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rekha-gupta-to-be-next-delhi-cm-arvind-kejriwal-says-i-hope-she-8737527">Rekha Gupta to be next Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal says &lsquo;I hope she&hellip;&rsquo;</a>
A man admitted to Sassoon General Hospital on January 10 with suspected Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) passed away on Monday after developing acute respiratory failure.
<h2 dir="ltr">India toll rises to 23</h2>
In total, 23 individuals with Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) have lost their lives across India, with single fatalities reported in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Tamil Nadu, and Bengal, in addition to the Pune cluster, which was linked to contaminated water and identified on January 9.
Maharashtra has recorded the highest number of casualties linked to the outbreak with 19, and Pune alone has 11.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/up-cm-yogi-adityanath-slams-mamata-banerjee-over-mrityu-kumbh-remark-8736518">UP CM Yogi Adityanath slams Mamata Banerjee over &lsquo;Mrityu-Kumbh&rsquo; remark</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">No fresh cases reported in last 24 hrs</h2>
The total number of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases stood at 211 on Wednesday, with no new cases reported, according to officials. Pune has been at the centre of the outbreak, accounting for 183 confirmed cases and 28 suspected cases, prompting health authorities to take swift action to address the situation.
GBS is a rare condition that causes sudden numbness and muscle weakness, with symptoms including severe weakness in the limbs and loose motion. Bacterial and viral infections generally lead to GBS as they weaken the immunity of patients, as per doctors.
(With inputs from agencies)
&nbsp;

India News: The recent deaths of two patients from Guillain-Barre Syndrome in Pune raise the city's outbreak fatalities to 11, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

Two patients undergoing treatment for Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) in Pune hospitals have succumbed to the illness over the past two days, bringing the total number of fatalities linked to the outbreak to 11 in the city. A woman diagnosed with GBS passed away at a city hospital on Tuesday (Feb 18), while a man from Daund in Pune district succumbed to suspected GBS at the state-run Sassoon General Hospital on Monday (Feb 17). Also read | ‘Why sell excess tickets?’: Delhi High Court questions authorities over stampede Two more succumb in Pune A woman from Nandedgaon, the epicentre of the Guillain-Barre Syndrome outbreak, initially experienced diarrhoea on January 15 but recovered without needing medical treatment. According to the officials, on January 22, she developed weakness in the lower limbs and was admitted to the hospital where she was given treatment for GBS. On January 25, she was shifted to another hospital where she was put on life support. She died during treatment on February 18. Also read | Rekha Gupta to be next Delhi CM, Arvind Kejriwal says ‘I hope she…’ A man admitted to Sassoon General Hospital on January 10 with suspected Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) passed away on Monday after developing acute respiratory failure. India toll rises to 23 In total, 23 individuals with Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) have lost their lives across India, with single fatalities reported in Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Tamil Nadu, and Bengal, in addition to the Pune cluster, which was linked to contaminated water and identified on January 9. Maharashtra has recorded the highest number of casualties linked to the outbreak with 19, and Pune alone has 11. Also read | UP CM Yogi Adityanath slams Mamata Banerjee over ‘Mrityu-Kumbh’ remark No fresh cases reported in last 24 hrs The total number of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases stood at 211 on Wednesday, with no new cases reported, according to officials. Pune has been at the centre of the outbreak, accounting for 183 confirmed cases and 28 suspected cases, prompting health authorities to take swift action to address the situation. GBS is a rare condition that causes sudden numbness and muscle weakness, with symptoms including severe weakness in the limbs and loose motion. Bacterial and viral infections generally lead to GBS as they weaken the immunity of patients, as per doctors. (With inputs from agencies)

GBS outbreak claims two more lives in Pune, India death toll rises to 23

Delhi CM announcement: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rekha Gupta has been named as the next Chief Minister of Delhi. Watch in for more details!

Delhi CM announcement: BJP names Rekha Gupta as next Delhi CM

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday (Feb 19) reprimanded the centre and Indian Railways over the stampede at the New Delhi Railway Station that killed 18 people.
The tragic incident occurred on Saturday (Feb 15) night, triggered by overcrowding due to delayed trains and the arrival of a special Express train for Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/new-delhi-railway-station-stampede-rpf-identifies-lapses-behind-fatal-chaos-that-killed-18-8731261">New Delhi railway station stampede: RPF says two announcements minutes apart led to chaos</a>
A division bench of Chief Justice DK Upadhyay and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela asked the Railways and centre why they had continued to sell tickets in excess of the number of passengers that could be accommodated in a coach.
The court was hearing a PIL on safety measures to ensure no such incident repeats and to enforce Section 147 of the Railways Act, which prescribes a punishment of up to six months in prison and a fine of Rs 1,000 for unauthorised entry into the railway.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centralised-war-room-indian-railways-revamp-crowd-control-measures-following-delhi-station-stampede-8729272">'Centralised war room': Indian Railways revamps crowd-control measures following Delhi station stampede</a>
&ldquo;Show what steps you will take to implement existing laws that limit number of passengers in coaches and penalise persons entering without authority,&rdquo; the court demanded. &ldquo;From a perusal of the relevant sections (of the Railways Act)... every railway administration is under a statutory mandate to fix a certain number of passengers... and this number shall be exhibited conspicuously outside coach.&rdquo;
&ldquo;If you implement a simple thing in a positive manner... in letter and spirit... this situation (the stampede at the Delhi railway station) could have been avoided,&rdquo; the Chief Justice said.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ticket-sales-surge-by-2600-on-day-of-stampede-at-new-delhi-railway-station-8728441">Delhi railway station stampede: 2,600 extra tickets were sold hours before tragedy, claim reports</a>
While the court acknowledged that on &ldquo;rush days&rdquo; the Railways could, within reason, accommodate more passengers, otherwise enforcing the maximum seating capacity &ldquo;seems to have been neglected&rdquo;.
&ldquo;Why did number of tickets sold exceed number of berths? That is a problem,&rdquo; the court asked.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Railways, accepted the court's directions and said that the Railway Board would look into all aspects of the matter. The next date of hearing is scheduled for March 26.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news | The tragic incident occurred on Saturday (Feb 15) night, triggered by overcrowding due to delayed trains and the arrival of a special Express train for Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday (Feb 19) reprimanded the centre and Indian Railways over the stampede at the New Delhi Railway Station that killed 18 people. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday (Feb 15) night, triggered by overcrowding due to delayed trains and the arrival of a special Express train for Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. Also read | New Delhi railway station stampede: RPF says two announcements minutes apart led to chaos A division bench of Chief Justice DK Upadhyay and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela asked the Railways and centre why they had continued to sell tickets in excess of the number of passengers that could be accommodated in a coach. The court was hearing a PIL on safety measures to ensure no such incident repeats and to enforce Section 147 of the Railways Act, which prescribes a punishment of up to six months in prison and a fine of Rs 1,000 for unauthorised entry into the railway. Also read | 'Centralised war room': Indian Railways revamps crowd-control measures following Delhi station stampede “Show what steps you will take to implement existing laws that limit number of passengers in coaches and penalise persons entering without authority,” the court demanded. “From a perusal of the relevant sections (of the Railways Act)... every railway administration is under a statutory mandate to fix a certain number of passengers... and this number shall be exhibited conspicuously outside coach.” “If you implement a simple thing in a positive manner... in letter and spirit... this situation (the stampede at the Delhi railway station) could have been avoided,” the Chief Justice said. Also read | Delhi railway station stampede: 2,600 extra tickets were sold hours before tragedy, claim reports While the court acknowledged that on “rush days” the Railways could, within reason, accommodate more passengers, otherwise enforcing the maximum seating capacity “seems to have been neglected”. “Why did number of tickets sold exceed number of berths? That is a problem,” the court asked. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Railways, accepted the court's directions and said that the Railway Board would look into all aspects of the matter. The next date of hearing is scheduled for March 26. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Why sell excess tickets?’: Delhi High Court questions authorities over railway station stampede

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