New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi officially became the Chief Minister of Delhi on September 22, succeeding Arvind Kejriwal. This transition comes after Kejriwal resigned earlier this month amid ongoing controversies.
In a heartfelt tribute to her predecessor, Atishi placed an empty chair next to her own during the ceremony, stating, "This chair belongs to Arvind Kejriwal. Today I took charge as the CM of Delhi. I feel the same pain in my heart as Bharat ji did. Just like Bharat ji worked while keeping Lord Shri Ram's sandals, I will take on the responsibilities as CM for the next four months."
Atishi expressed her confidence in Kejriwal's return as Chief Minister after the upcoming assembly elections, expected to take place in February 2025. "I believe that the people of Delhi will support Arvind Kejriwal in the elections and bring him back as CM. Until then, his chair will remain here," she shared in a video message to the citizens.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by Kejriwal, Atishi remarked, "For the last two years, the BJP has relentlessly tried to tarnish Arvind Kejriwal's reputation. He spent six months in jail, and the court recognized that his arrest was made with malicious intent."
Atishi, at 43, is now the third woman to serve as Chief Minister of Delhi, following Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit. Kejriwal's resignation was prompted by his assertion that he is not a politician motivated by corruption or greed for power. He emphasized his commitment to serving the nation, stating, "I did not enter politics to make money. I came to change the country's political landscape."
Kejriwal indicated he would only consider returning to his position if he receives a renewed mandate from the electorate in the forthcoming assembly polls.
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