Atishi Takes Charge: AAP Welcomes New Leadership In Delhi Ahead Of Polls!

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi was sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Delhi on Saturday, succeeding Arvind Kejriwal, who resigned earlier in the week.

The newly announced Council of Ministers includes Sultanpur Majra MLA Mukesh Ahlawat as a new addition, alongside existing ministers Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Saurabh Bharadwaj, and Imran Hussain.

Photo Credit: X/ANI

Atishi's tenure is expected to be short-lived, as assembly elections in Delhi are scheduled for February next year. Atishi, 43, was appointed leader of the Aam Aadmi Party's legislature party on Tuesday, just before Arvind Kejriwal submitted his resignation to Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena.

As a minister in Kejriwal's Cabinet, Atishi managed 14 portfolios, including finance, education, and revenue, stepping up during Kejriwal's recent jail time following a Supreme Court bail in a corruption case related to the Delhi excise policy.

Kejriwal announced his resignation on Sunday, stating, "I will not occupy the Chief Minister's chair until the people give their verdict. I plan to visit every home and street, awaiting their decision."

He further emphasized, "If you believe in my honesty, vote for me; if not, don't. Your vote will serve as a testament to my integrity. I won't assume the role of CM until after the elections, which are expected in February. I urge for the elections to be held in November alongside those in Maharashtra."

Atishi took her oath of office at Raj Niwas, administered by the Lieutenant Governor.