The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has announced that Atishi will take the oath as Delhi’s new Chief Minister on September 21, along with her cabinet. This move comes after the resignation of Arvind Kejriwal, who stepped down from his position on Tuesday, prompting Atishi to stake her claim to lead the government in the national capital. Initially, AAP had planned for only Atishi to be sworn in, but the decision was later extended to include her council of ministers.
Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor (LG), V K Saxena, proposed September 21 as the date for the swearing-in ceremony, following Kejriwal’s resignation. As per the AAP’s announcement, Kejriwal will give up his security detail and vacate the Chief Minister’s residence within 15 days to “live like a commoner.” The swearing-in is expected to take place at Raj Niwas and is anticipated to be a “low-key affair” due to the somber circumstances surrounding Kejriwal’s departure.
AAP insiders have expressed that the occasion is not one for celebration. Atishi, the Chief Minister-designate, has urged party members and supporters not to congratulate her, indicating the gravity of the moment. According to an AAP functionary, “Atishi herself has said it was an extremely sad moment.” This sentiment reflects the unexpected political shift following Kejriwal’s resignation.
A source from the LG Secretariat confirmed that Saxena communicated the proposed date for the swearing-in to President Droupadi Murmu and that Kejriwal’s resignation letter has also been forwarded to the President.
The transition of power marks a significant change for the Delhi government. Atishi, known for her work in the education sector, faces the challenge of stepping into a role held by Kejriwal, a prominent political figure. Observers are keen to see how this leadership change will impact Delhi’s governance and AAP’s future direction.
The oath-taking ceremony on September 21 will officially commence a new chapter for Delhi, setting the stage for Atishi’s tenure and the policies her government will pursue in the coming months.