In her first public remarks after being named the next Chief Minister of Delhi, senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi expressed her sadness over Arvind Kejriwal’s resignation from the role.
She emphasized her commitment to working towards reinstating Kejriwal as the Chief Minister.
Currently holding multiple portfolios in the Delhi government, Atishi highlighted that only a party like AAP would entrust significant responsibilities to a newcomer like herself. She noted that during a meeting with the party’s legislators, Kejriwal put forward her name as his successor, and it was unanimously accepted by the MLAs.
Addressing the media, Atishi stated, “For the upcoming months, my sole aim will be to ensure that Arvind Kejriwal returns as Chief Minister. I will serve as Chief Minister under his guidance and work to protect the interests of the people of Delhi.” She also urged party members not to offer her congratulations, considering it a somber moment.
Reflecting on her political journey, Atishi said, “Kejriwal believed in me. He made me an MLA, a minister, and now the Chief Minister. I am grateful to him. In any other political party, someone like me, a first-time politician, wouldn’t have even received a ticket to contest elections.”
She further expressed mixed emotions, saying, “While I am grateful, I am deeply saddened that my elder brother is stepping down as Chief Minister. Please do not offer me garlands or congratulations, as this is a difficult time.”
Atishi also acknowledged that Kejriwal’s resignation has angered many, and that he would soon meet Lt. Governor V.K. Saxena to officially tender his resignation, clearing the way for her appointment.
Describing Kejriwal’s resignation as an unprecedented event in Indian political history, Atishi reiterated her commitment to working towards his return as Chief Minister in the coming months. With her appointment, Atishi will become Delhi’s third female Chief Minister, following in the footsteps of Congress leader Sheila Dikshit and BJP’s Sushma Swaraj.
Atishi also took a critical stance on the Supreme Court’s recent decision to grant bail to Kejriwal in connection with the alleged excise policy corruption case, calling it a clear rebuke to the central government. She accused the BJP-led government of misusing investigative agencies like the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to target Kejriwal.
The Supreme Court’s granting of bail, Atishi said, was a symbolic rejection of the government’s tactics, noting that these agencies had been referred to as “caged parrots” by the court.
(With inputs from agency)
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