Atishi the New Chief Minister of Delhi, A Surprising Turn in AAP’s Leadership
Atishi has been appointed as the new Chief Minister of Delhi. This is something that showcases the term “Accidental Prime Minister” in Indian politics.AAP leader Saurabh Bhardwaj has already dismissed any doubts, stating that the position still belongs to Kejriwal and will always remain his.
The appointment of the Atishi comes after a series of political upheavals and speculations about who would take over the leadership after the imprisonment of Arvind Kejriwal over a liquor scam. The decision of Kejriwal to run the government from jail did not stop speculation about his successor. Now, the announcement has confirmed that Atishi is the new face of the Chief Minister of Delhi.
Why Atishi Was Chosen as Delhi’s Chief Minister
Atishi’s selection as Chief Minister is not surprising. She has been the natural successor to Kejriwal in the Delhi government. After Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia’s names were implicated in the liquor scam, Atishi was entrusted with their portfolios. She became the face of the Delhi government during their absence, managing both party affairs and confronting BJP’s attacks. Her efficiency and trustworthiness made her the ideal candidate.
Atishi’s Role as Chief Minister and Additional Departments
Despite critics considering the Chief Minister’s residence a “palace”, it is clear that Atishi will handle many responsibilities. Even though Kejriwal remains an important figure, Atishi will be the first AAP chief minister to oversee multiple departments. His tenure is expected to last for five months, which is a shorter tenure than that of former Chief Minister Sushma Swaraj.
Who Wasn’t Considered for the Chief Minister Role
Several AAP leaders were unlikely candidates for the Chief Minister position.
| Gopal Rai | Although experienced and respected, Rai’s health issues and lack of recent highprofile activity made him an unlikely choice. |
| Raghav Chadha | Once a close aide to Kejriwal, Chadha’s absence during the political turmoil and his recent marriage led to his exclusion from the list of potential candidates. |
| Sanjay Singh | Singh’s controversial statements during a high-profile case and a diminished trust from Kejriwal excluded him from consideration. |
| Kailash Gahlot | Gahlot’s involvement in investigations disqualified him from being a viable candidate. |
| Manish Sisodia | Kejriwal himself clearly ruled out Sisodia’s name, despite his prior role in government. |
| Sunita Kejriwal | As a supportive figure during Kejriwal’s imprisonment, Sunita was not considered for the Chief Minister role, as it would have been a major political error. |
| Somnath Bharti | He is a senior leader of AAP. Several reasons like controversial past and frequent disputes made him an unlikely candidate for the post of CM. |
Also Read | Who Will Be Delhi’s Next Chief Minister? AAP Leaders in Focus After Kejriwal’s Resignation
The political landscape in Delhi is shifting, and the appointment of Atishi as CM of Delhi marks a new chapter in the politics of Delhi. The decision by Mr. Kejriwal reflects both the challenges and strategic moves within AAP as they navigate through this unexpected transition.
Not all AAP leaders are pleased with Atishi becoming the new Chief Minister. In a swift reaction, Rajya Sabha MP Swati Maliwal accused Atishi’s parents of having fought to prevent the execution of terrorist Afzal Guru.
