Delhi LG VK Saxena Says CM Atishi Is "Thousand Times Better" Than...

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, who has often clashed with the Aam Aadmi Party, unexpectedly praised Chief Minister Atishi. During a convocation at the Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women, he stated she is "a thousand times better" than her predecessor Arvind Kejriwal. This was notable given their past disagreements on various issues.

Atishi assumed office on September 21 after a brief internal conflict within AAP regarding Mr Kejriwal's successor. Mr Kejriwal resigned shortly after securing bail in a controversial liquor policy scam case, ahead of next year's election. He expressed his intention to seek a "certificate of honesty" from Delhi's residents.

Past Tensions and Criticisms

Mr Saxena hasn't always been complimentary towards Atishi. In April, while Mr Kejriwal was jailed, he criticised her and colleague Saurabh Bhardwaj for lacking seriousness during discussions on governance matters. Former Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot also faced criticism; he later joined the BJP.

Last month, Mr Saxena criticised Mr Kejriwal for not implementing the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme during his tenure. He dismissed Delhi's own scheme as "a web of illusion" and accused Mr Kejriwal of withholding central audit reports. Their disputes included disagreements over aldermen nominations and budget delays.

Political Challenges Ahead

The AAP faces significant challenges in securing a third consecutive Assembly win. The BJP and Congress have persistently attacked them over issues like air quality and controversies surrounding the former Chief Minister. The party's ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial in the upcoming elections.

Mr Kejriwal's government has long argued that the BJP controls Delhi through the Lieutenant Governor, who is nominated by them. This perceived stranglehold has been a point of contention between the two parties, especially during Mr Kejriwal's legal troubles related to the liquor policy case.

The political landscape in Delhi remains tense as parties prepare for upcoming elections. With ongoing disputes and criticisms, how these dynamics evolve will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.