Delhi’s Budget for 2026–27 was unanimously passed in the Assembly on Friday, the final day of the session.
During the discussion, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta sharply criticized the previous government’s financial record, saying it had left behind a massive debt burden that the present administration is now working to manage.
Outlining her government’s priorities, Gupta said Delhi is entering a new phase—one driven by outcomes rather than excuses. “This is a new government with a new way of working. The focus will be on delivery,” she stated.
Speaking in the Assembly, the Chief Minister assured the House that unfinished projects would be completed, public money would be properly accounted for, and every citizen would receive their due.
Gupta emphasised that her government would move away from confrontation and instead prioritise performance. “Delhi will no longer remain stuck. It will move forward rapidly and set an example for the country,” she said.
The Chief Minister described the budget as the largest ever in terms of capital expenditure, emphasizing that it is not limited to welfare schemes but aims to deliver real, on-ground development.
She noted that capital spending had been prioritized last year as well and has now been further increased to bring about a tangible shift in governance.
Taking a swipe at the Opposition, the Chief Minister alleged that they failed to respect the dignity of the House. “They were given a full opportunity to speak inside the Assembly but chose to sit on the streets instead,” she remarked.
Addressing the debate around government borrowing, Gupta said taking loans is not new and has been a consistent practice since 1999.
She pointed out that earlier governments had also borrowed heavily, often at higher interest rates. “In contrast, our government has maintained fiscal discipline,” she said, adding that Delhi has borrowed only 1.17% against the permitted 3% of GSDP, and that too at one of the lowest interest rates in the country—7.4%.
Gupta said her government has begun clearing long-pending dues, including payments related to sportspersons, EWS welfare, scholarships, awards and the Kishori scheme.
Drawing a clear distinction, she said the current government is committed to changing the system. “Every rupee will be accounted for, and every pending project will be completed. Delhi will now run on results, not excuses,” she added.
The Chief Minister said the government is investing heavily in education to ensure the timely supply of books and uniforms, along with improved infrastructure such as smart classrooms and modern laboratories.
She added that while Delhi may have been held back in the past, it is now moving forward with a renewed governance approach.