The historic Ramlila Maidan, a witness to several political movements and oath-taking ceremonies, is set to host another milestone event. After a 27-year-long wait, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is all set to form the government in Delhi and has chosen Ramlila Maidan for the swearing-in ceremony instead of Raj Bhavan. However, even after 11 days of securing a major electoral victory, the party has yet to announce its chief ministerial candidate.
Ramlila Maidan has played a crucial role in India’s political history. From Jayaprakash Narayan’s famous slogan, “Takhth Chhodo, Log Aa Rahe Hain” (Vacate the throne, the people are coming), to movements led by Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and even Anna Hazare, this ground has witnessed numerous historic moments. Over the years, it has been a center for massive protests, political rallies, and oath-taking ceremonies.
The 10-acre ground, located between Ajmeri Gate and Turkman Gate, was originally built by the British and used as a military camp. Post-independence, it became famous for hosting large-scale political gatherings and annual Dussehra celebrations, including the symbolic burning of Ravana.
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Delhi’s political history changed in 2013 when Arvind Kejriwal took oath as chief minister at Ramlila Maidan, breaking the tradition of Raj Bhavan ceremonies. His journey began in 2011 during the Jan Lokpal movement alongside Anna Hazare, which ultimately led to the formation of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in 2012. AAP’s strong electoral performance in 2013, securing 28 out of 70 seats, allowed Kejriwal to form the government with Congress’s support.
On December 28, 2013, Kejriwal arrived at Ramlila Maidan via the metro to take his first oath as chief minister before a massive gathering. However, his tenure was short-lived, and he resigned after just 49 days. In 2015, AAP made a strong comeback, winning 67 out of 70 seats, and Kejriwal took oath again at Ramlila Maidan on February 14, 2015. He repeated the tradition in 2020, after securing 62 seats, and was sworn in for the third time on February 20, 2020.
With BJP now ending AAP’s decade-long rule, the party aims to make a statement by choosing Ramlila Maidan for its swearing-in. This marks the first time the BJP will take oath at this historic venue, signaling a new era in Delhi’s politics.
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