Rekha Gupta celebrates Onam, lauds city’s diversity

 The Hindu Bureau

New Delhi

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday said that Ramlila celebrations in the national capital will be grander and more hassle-free this year owing to a single-window clearance system introduced by the government.

Performing Bhoomi Pujan ceremonies for three Ramlilas – two at the Red Fort Grounds and one in Pitampura – ahead of the festive season, Ms. Gupta said the government is fully committed to enriching Delhi’s cultural life and preserving traditions. 
“Ramlilas embody timeless lessons for society and reflect Delhi’s cultural identity. With the single-window system, organisers will now receive timely and hassle-free permissions,” she said.

Ms. Gupta announced the single-window clearance system and lower security deposit for Ramlila committees on August 14. The system, which will be established at the District Magistrates’ offices, will replace the process of seeking no-objection certificates from multiple departments, including the police and the land-owning agency.

Ms. Gupta said Delhi takes pride in traditions like Ramlila, which spiritually and culturally unite society. 
She assured that the government will ensure the seamless conduct of all religious and cultural events, so that neither organisers nor devotees face inconvenience.

Onam celebration

Celebrating Onam with the Malayali community at her camp office, Ms. Gupta said nearly one million Malayali families reside in Delhi, and they have not only preserved their rich cultural traditions but also enriched the city with their heritage. 
“The Delhi government accords equal respect to every community. The Malayali community has strengthened Delhi with its diversity, dedication, and spirit of service,” Ms. Gupta said.

Urging the gathering to draw inspiration from the festival, she called for making Delhi a true family, where every religion, every community, and every tradition is accorded equal respect to take the city forward.