Wed Sep 18 07:13:04 UTC 2024: ## Atishi Takes the Helm as Delhi’s New Chief Minister, Kejriwal Resigns to Campaign for Re-election
In a dramatic turn of events, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal resigned from his post on Tuesday, handing the baton over to Atishi, a prominent AAP minister, who immediately staked her claim to form the next government. This move comes just months ahead of the state assembly elections scheduled for February 2025, and marks the latest chapter in the capital’s volatile political landscape.
Kejriwal, facing bail in a corruption case related to the city’s excise policy, decided to step down and seek a fresh mandate from the people. He believes that this move will allow him to campaign freely against the BJP’s alleged attempts to discredit him and his party through probes by federal agencies.
Atishi, a former academic who joined politics in 2020, has been a key figure in the AAP government, holding several portfolios including education and finance. Her rise to the top has been rapid and coincided with the party’s turbulent period, marked by arrests of senior leaders on corruption charges.
The BJP has criticized Atishi’s appointment, labeling her as a “proxy CM” and questioning her ability to wield real power. The party believes that Kejriwal will continue to hold sway despite stepping down.
Atishi, however, has stated that her sole aim is to ensure Kejriwal’s return as Chief Minister. She intends to continue his work, emphasizing the importance of schemes like free electricity and healthcare, and campaigning against any attempts to undermine the AAP’s achievements.
This is not the first time Kejriwal has resigned. In 2014, he stepped down after just 49 days in office. This time, the AAP is hoping that a massive grassroots campaign, led by Kejriwal, will help secure a victory in the upcoming elections.
The AAP’s strategy is a gamble, but it highlights the party’s determination to retain power in Delhi, even as it faces a multitude of challenges. The upcoming months will be a crucial period for both the AAP and its opponents, as the race for Delhi’s political throne heats up.
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