Sat Sep 21 17:50:57 UTC 2024: ## Atishi Sworn in as Delhi’s New Chief Minister Amidst Political Turmoil

**New Delhi, September 21, 2023:** Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi Marlena took oath as the new Chief Minister of Delhi on Thursday, becoming the third woman to hold the position. The ceremony, held at the Raj Niwas, saw Atishi and five other ministers taking the oath of office and secrecy from Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena.

Atishi, a close confidante of Arvind Kejriwal and a prominent AAP leader, was elected by the party’s MLAs on September 17. Her elevation comes after Kejriwal stepped down following his bail in a controversial excise policy case. He also stated that Manish Sisodia would not be taking over as CM.

Atishi’s cabinet includes five ministers – Saurabh Bhardwaj, Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Imran Hussain, and Mukesh Ahlawat, the latter being a new addition. The cabinet has maintained the portfolios held by the previous government, ensuring continuity in governance.

The new CM pledged to continue the work started by Kejriwal and protect the welfare schemes implemented by the AAP government. However, she acknowledged the challenges posed by the BJP, which she believes will try to disrupt the government’s initiatives.

Atishi’s ascension has sparked political debate in Delhi, with the BJP alleging AAP of misleading the public. AAP has countered these claims, highlighting its commitment to providing free services and emphasizing Kejriwal’s integrity.

The swearing-in ceremony took place amidst a heated political atmosphere, following a series of events that saw Kejriwal step down and Atishi appointed as his successor. While the new CM faces an uncertain future, she is expected to focus on implementing crucial policies like the Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana and the Electric Vehicle Policy 2.0 before the upcoming Assembly elections in February 2025.

This development marks a significant turn in Delhi’s political landscape and raises questions about the future of the AAP government. The party will need to navigate the challenges ahead and maintain its popularity ahead of the crucial elections.

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