In a significant political development, Atishi, a prominent leader from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Delhi on Saturday. Her appointment marks a new chapter in the political landscape of the national capital, as she becomes the youngest and 8th individual to hold this coveted position.
Atishi's Rise to Leadership
Atishi's swearing-in comes after Arvind Kejriwal, the long-serving Chief Minister and the face of AAP, stepped down from his role following his controversial involvement in the excise policy case. Kejriwal, who resigned after securing bail from the Supreme Court, passed the baton to Atishi, who has been a key player in the party's governance and reform efforts. Known for her dedication to education reform and representing the Kalkaji constituency, Atishi's rise as the Chief Minister was unanimously backed by AAP MLAs during a party meeting on September 17.
Her appointment has been seen as a move to ensure continuity in AAP's governance while maintaining a fresh approach as the party gears up for the upcoming assembly elections in early 2025.
A Low-Key Oath Ceremony
Atishi and her new council of ministers were sworn in by Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena at a low-key ceremony held at Raj Niwas. Joining her were seasoned leaders Saurabh Bharadwaj, Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, and Imran Hussain, alongside Mukesh Ahlawat, a first-time MLA and a fresh face in the Delhi Cabinet. The understated nature of the ceremony reflected the somber mood within the party, which has been grappling with the fallout of Kejriwal's resignation and the lingering legal battles around the excise policy case.
Portfolio Distribution: A Continuation of Kejriwal's Vision
While Atishi’s leadership represents a new phase, her administration is poised to continue many of the policies and initiatives championed by Kejriwal. Atishi will manage 13 major portfolios, including finance, education, power, PWD, and revenue, maintaining the responsibilities she held in the previous government. Her deep involvement in the education sector, in particular, is expected to further strengthen Delhi’s education reforms—a hallmark of AAP’s governance.
Other ministers also saw familiar portfolios: Gopal Rai retains environment and general administration, Saurabh Bharadwaj oversees health and urban development, Kailash Gahlot continues with transport and home affairs, and Imran Hussain will manage food supplies and elections. Meanwhile, newcomer Mukesh Ahlawat takes charge of SC&ST welfare, labor, and gurdwara elections—critical portfolios that cater to Delhi’s marginalized communities.
Atishi’s Leadership Vision: Reform, Inclusivity, and Progress
In her first public statement after taking office, Atishi pledged to uphold AAP’s commitment to the people of Delhi. She highlighted the importance of completing pending reforms and introducing new policies that would focus on inclusivity and progress. Under her leadership, the government is expected to prioritize the Mukhyamantri Mahila Samman Yojana, Electric Vehicle Policy 2.0, and the much-anticipated doorstep delivery of services scheme.
Ahlawat, the newest addition to the cabinet, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the significance of addressing the needs of Dalit and backward communities. He acknowledged the opportunities made possible by AAP’s inclusive politics and credited Kejriwal and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar for the party’s vision of empowerment.
“We will work tirelessly for the upliftment of Dalits and backward communities, ensuring their voices are heard and their issues addressed,” Ahlawat said.
Political Undercurrents: AAP's Strategy Amidst Challenges
Despite Atishi’s smooth transition into leadership, the political undercurrents remain strong. Senior AAP leaders have stressed that Kejriwal’s resignation is temporary and part of a broader strategy. Gopal Rai, one of Atishi’s close allies, reiterated that the party’s ultimate goal is to return Kejriwal to power through public support. He underscored that the new government’s primary objective would be to complete unfinished tasks, stabilize governance, and navigate the complex political challenges that lay ahead.
"With Arvind Kejriwal stepping aside for the moment, our focus remains unwavering: to continue serving the people of Delhi with the same commitment and work towards reinstating him as Chief Minister. The work continues,” Rai said.
BJP’s Criticism: Opposition Gears Up
No sooner had Atishi taken office than the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) launched a series of criticisms. BJP MP Manoj Tiwari was quick to raise concerns about AAP’s governance, ranging from the excise policy controversy to school infrastructure. In an open letter to Atishi, he congratulated her but underscored the need for transparency in the government’s dealings, particularly urging her to open the doors to what he referred to as “Sheesh Mahal”—a metaphor for the alleged misuse of public funds.
Other BJP leaders were more direct. Amit Malviya, BJP’s IT cell head, labeled Kejriwal’s resignation as a “drama,” aimed at masking his inability to continue as CM due to Supreme Court restrictions. The BJP’s attacks reflect the charged political climate, with the opposition eager to capitalize on AAP’s leadership changes ahead of the upcoming polls.
Proving the Majority: A Critical Test for the New Government
The Atishi-led government’s first major challenge will come on September 26-27, when it seeks to prove its majority in the Delhi Assembly. While AAP maintains a comfortable lead in the assembly, this session will be crucial not only for Atishi’s validation as Chief Minister but also for the party to reassure its voters ahead of the February elections.
In the coming months, Atishi’s leadership will be closely watched as she balances the demands of governance with AAP’s electoral ambitions. Fast-tracking welfare schemes, managing public perception, and maintaining party unity in the absence of Kejriwal will be pivotal in defining her tenure as Chief Minister.
Conclusion: A Transitional Phase for Delhi's Politics
Atishi’s ascension to the role of Chief Minister signals both continuity and change. As the youngest leader to hold the post, she embodies AAP’s progressive ideals and commitment to governance. However, her leadership will be defined by her ability to address the challenges left behind by Kejriwal and guide Delhi through a period of political uncertainty. With elections looming, the spotlight is now firmly on her shoulders to deliver on AAP’s promises and ensure a stable and effective government for the people of Delhi.