Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Accuses Previous AAP Government of Emptying State Exchequer
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has alleged that the previous Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) administration left the state’s finances in disarray, depleting the exchequer. Despite these financial challenges, she reaffirmed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government’s commitment to implementing the Rs 2,500-per-month honorarium scheme for eligible women in Delhi.
Commitment to Women’s Honorarium Scheme
Addressing a joint press conference with Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva, CM Gupta discussed the financial hurdles inherited from the previous administration. She emphasized that, upon reviewing the state’s financial status with officials, it was evident that the exchequer had been exhausted. However, she assured that the government is dedicated to fulfilling its promise to provide financial assistance to women, stating that detailed planning is underway to ensure the scheme’s successful implementation.
The proposed initiative aims to benefit approximately 3.8 million women over the age of 18, excluding taxpayers, government employees, and current beneficiaries of other state welfare programs. The scheme is projected to require an annual budget allocation of over Rs 11,000 crore.
Legislative Session Prioritizes Development and Accountability
CM Gupta outlined the agenda for the upcoming three-day assembly session, highlighting the election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, followed by the swearing-in of newly elected legislators. The session will prioritize discussions on development projects and address the alleged financial mismanagement by the previous government. She emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, indicating that pending Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) reports will be presented to scrutinize the prior administration’s expenditure of public funds.
In response to former Chief Minister Atishi’s assertion that her government had adhered to proper procedures by forwarding CAG reports to the lieutenant governor for approval before tabling them in the assembly, BJP leaders maintained that a thorough examination of the reports is necessary to ensure financial propriety and restore public trust.
The BJP’s electoral promise to provide a monthly honorarium to women under the ‘Mahila Samriddhi Yojana’ was a key component of their campaign. Despite the current fiscal constraints, the Delhi government is exploring viable strategies to fulfill this commitment, aiming to empower women and promote their financial independence.
As the assembly session progresses, the government’s focus remains on advancing development initiatives and implementing welfare schemes, while ensuring financial discipline and addressing the alleged fiscal mismanagement of the previous administration.
