New Delhi – Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta marked the 77th Republic Day by launching comprehensive slum development projects valued at ₹327 crore, signaling her government’s commitment to transforming living conditions in the capital’s jhuggi-jhopri clusters through targeted infrastructure improvements and basic amenities.
Major Investment in Civic Infrastructure
The slum development projects announced on Monday focus primarily on establishing essential civic infrastructure within JJ clusters across Delhi. The initiative encompasses the construction of public convenience complexes and cement concrete roads and lanes designed to provide dignified living conditions for residents of informal settlements. Government officials revealed that of the approved ₹327 crore allocation, works amounting to ₹144 crore have already been awarded to contractors and are currently underway.
The chief minister unfurled the national flag at the Mukhyamantri Jan Seva Sadan during Republic Day celebrations before announcing these slum development projects. She paid homage to the architects of the Constitution and freedom fighters, emphasizing that January 26 represents not merely a date but a symbol of India’s self-respect, democratic consciousness, and complete sovereignty.
Comprehensive Budget Allocation for JJ Development
Beyond the Republic Day announcement, Gupta disclosed that the Delhi government has earmarked a dedicated budget of ₹700 crore specifically for JJ development. This substantial allocation demonstrates the administration’s prioritization of slum development projects as a core governance objective. The comprehensive budget covers work related to basic amenities, housing, health, sanitation, and social welfare initiatives, all being fast-tracked for implementation.
“It is my government’s objective to ensure that the benefits of development reach the last mile of society,” the chief minister stated, underscoring her administration’s inclusive approach to urban development. The slum development projects are being implemented with urgency, with several initiatives inaugurated specifically on Republic Day to mark the occasion with tangible action.
Essential Amenities Under the Development Plan
A comprehensive plan has been prepared under these slum development projects to ensure essential infrastructure reaches JJ areas. The blueprint includes construction of drains, roads, toilets, parks, and settlement development centres aimed at liberating residents from inhumane living conditions. These works have been prioritized and are being implemented at an accelerated pace to deliver rapid improvements.
The slum development projects also encompass the establishment of Atal Canteens, Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, and dedicated health and nutrition services. Gupta emphasized that these facilities, which were previously unavailable specifically for JJ residents, are now being systematically rolled out across slum clusters to ensure equitable access to basic services.
Personal Engagement with Slum Residents
Demonstrating hands-on leadership, Chief Minister Gupta shared a meal with slum dwellers at her residence following the inauguration of the slum development projects. During this interaction, she held detailed discussions on the issues and requirements facing JJ residents, assuring them of her government’s complete dedication to improving their quality of life.
“Sharing a meal with JJ residents at my residence and inaugurating projects for them was particularly inspiring for the government,” Gupta remarked, highlighting the personal connection she seeks to establish with beneficiaries of these slum development projects.
Recognition of Slum Dwellers’ Contribution
The chief minister acknowledged the significant role that slum cluster residents have played in Delhi’s development, recognizing that workers living in these settlements have contributed substantially to the city’s growth. This recognition formed the philosophical foundation for prioritizing slum development projects within her government’s agenda.
Gupta wrote on social media that the Republic Day occasion “inspires us to further strengthen our commitment to the ideals of the Constitution, our duties, and the cause of nation-building.” She recalled that after Independence on August 15, 1947, India adopted its Constitution on January 26, 1950, declaring itself a nation of the people, by the people, and for the people.
Political Context and Criticism of Previous Administration
While announcing the slum development projects, Gupta launched sharp criticism against the former Aam Aadmi Party government, accusing the previous administration of treating JJ dwellers merely as a vote bank. She alleged that the earlier government had consistently created an atmosphere of fear among slum residents and failed to provide basic civic amenities despite making substantial promises.
The chief minister specifically criticized former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, referencing allegations about lavish spending while ordinary citizens struggled. She asserted that her government considers the struggles of ordinary citizens as its own and remains devoted to serving them continuously.
Implementation Timeline and Future Plans
The slum development projects are being executed on a fast-track basis, with government officials monitoring progress closely. The ₹144 crore worth of projects already under construction represent the first phase of a larger transformation agenda for Delhi’s JJ clusters. The remaining projects from the ₹327 crore allocation will be progressively awarded and implemented in coming months, ensuring sustained momentum in improving slum living conditions across the capital.
