New Delhi: In a significant political development, Arvind Kejriwal, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) supremo, resigned from his position as Chief Minister of Delhi on Tuesday. The resignation came during a meeting with Lt Governor VK Saxena. Following Kejriwal’s resignation, senior AAP leader and minister Atishi met with the Lt Governor to stake her claim as the new Chief Minister.
Atishi, who was unanimously chosen by AAP legislators to succeed Kejriwal, expressed her sentiments to the media after her meeting with the Lt Governor. “This is a historic moment,” she stated. “For the first time in democratic history, a Chief Minister has chosen to resign based on the principle that the Supreme Court’s decision alone is not sufficient. He awaits the court of the people’s verdict.”
Atishi emphasized the public’s desire to see Kejriwal return to power in the next elections, reflecting a widespread sentiment of disappointment over his resignation. She added, “The people of Delhi are deeply saddened by Kejriwal’s resignation. However, our focus now shifts to continuing his legacy and preparing for the upcoming elections.”
The AAP MLAs had earlier approved Atishi’s appointment at a party meeting, with no plans for a Deputy Chief Minister. Atishi, representing the Kalkaji constituency, is set to take the oath of office during a special Assembly session scheduled for September 26-27.
Delhi Minister Gopal Rai praised Atishi’s appointment, highlighting her resilience and dedication. “Atishi has been entrusted with the responsibility during these challenging times,” Rai said. “We have faced attempts to destabilize the government, but AAP remains strong and united.”
Atishi, an Oxford University alumna and Rhodes scholar, has been a pivotal figure within the AAP since its inception. Her significant role was further demonstrated when Kejriwal had previously recommended her to hoist the national flag in his stead during the Delhi government’s Independence Day celebrations.
As the only female minister in the Delhi Cabinet, Atishi manages 14 portfolios, including education, finance, public works, revenue, and services. Known for her behind-the-scenes work, she gained prominence as a vocal defender of Kejriwal and AAP during the liquor policy case and subsequent controversies.
Atishi’s political journey began with AAP in 2013, following her involvement in the Jal Satyagraha in Madhya Pradesh in 2015. Despite a defeat in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, she was elected from the Kalkaji seat in the 2020 Delhi Assembly polls, securing a significant victory against BJP’s Dharambir Singh.
With Assembly elections scheduled for February next year, Atishi’s immediate challenge will be to prepare the party for the upcoming electoral battle while continuing to advance the work initiated under Kejriwal’s leadership.