The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to hold a significant oath-taking ceremony at Ramlila Maidan on February 20, 2025, marking a historic moment as it returns to power in Delhi after nearly three decades.
This event is particularly noteworthy as it will see the inauguration of the first BJP chief minister since the era of Madan Lal Khurana, Sahib Singh Verma, and Sushma Swaraj, who led the city in the late 1990s.
Ramlila Maidan has long been a pivotal site in India's political landscape. It was here that Arvind Kejriwal first took his oath as Chief Minister and where his anti-corruption movement gained momentum. The venue is steeped in history, having hosted numerous significant political rallies and protests, including Anna Hazare's landmark anti-corruption movement in 2011.
By choosing this iconic location for their ceremony, the BJP aims to resonate with the electorate and evoke a sense of nostalgia among voters who remember the party's earlier governance.
The BJP's decision to hold the ceremony at Ramlila Maidan is strategic, reflecting both cultural significance and political symbolism.
The venue is not only accessible but also allows for a large gathering, with estimates suggesting that around 100,000 attendees may be present. This grand event will feature prominent BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chief ministers from other BJP-ruled states, reinforcing the party's unity and strength.
In the recent assembly elections held on February 8, the BJP secured 48 out of 70 seats, decisively defeating the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which managed to win only 22 seats. This victory represents a significant shift in Delhi's political dynamics, as the BJP seeks to consolidate its base among diverse communities within the capital.
The choice of Ramlila Maidan serves as a powerful backdrop to project an image of accessibility and inclusiveness, inviting not only party supporters but also the general public to witness this historic moment.
As preparations unfold for this grand occasion, with extensive security measures in place and logistical arrangements underway, the BJP is poised to make a strong statement about its renewed presence in Delhi politics after nearly three decades.