New Delhi: In a significant political development, Atishi Marlena has been sworn in as the new Chief Minister of Delhi, following the resignation of Arvind Kejriwal. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Lieutenant Governor’s Secretariat, marking a new chapter in Delhi’s political landscape.
Atishi, a prominent leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), was elected as the new leader in the party’s legislative meeting prior to Kejriwal’s resignation. With this appointment, she becomes the third woman to hold the Chief Minister’s office in Delhi, following in the footsteps of BJP’s Sushma Swaraj and Congress’ Sheila Dikshit.
A New Leadership Team
Alongside Atishi, AAP leaders Mukesh Ahlawat and Gopal Rai took oath as cabinet ministers. The new cabinet also includes Saurabh Bhardwaj, Kailash Gehlot, and Imran Hussain, who have been entrusted with key ministerial roles. Mukesh Ahlawat, a first-time MLA from Sultanpur Mazra, is a fresh face in the Atishi-led cabinet.
Continuing Kejriwal’s Legacy
In his address after the swearing-in ceremony, Gopal Rai emphasized the continuity of Kejriwal’s vision. “This entire team is Arvind Kejriwal’s team,” he stated. “The work started by Arvind Kejriwal has to be taken to new heights. Especially in winter, the effect of air pollution increases significantly, and we will work diligently to control it. The government has done a lot of work, providing free electricity, free water, and healthcare. We will continue to strive for improvements in the future.”
A Historic Achievement
Atishi’s appointment is not just a milestone for Delhi but also for India. She is the 17th woman to hold the post of Chief Minister in independent India. The Lieutenant Governor administered the oath of office to the new ministers, marking the beginning of their tenure.
Atishi’s leadership is expected to bring fresh perspectives and renewed energy to the governance of Delhi, as the city prepares for the upcoming assembly elections. Her tenure, though brief, is anticipated to be impactful, with a focus on continuing the progressive policies initiated by her predecessor.
Looking Ahead
As Delhi’s youngest Chief Minister, Atishi’s rise to this prominent position is a testament to her dedication and leadership within the AAP. Her administration will face the immediate challenge of addressing air pollution and other pressing issues, while also maintaining the momentum of the welfare schemes that have been a hallmark of the AAP government.
The people of Delhi now look forward to seeing how Atishi and her team will navigate these challenges and lead the city towards a brighter future.