Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: In a major political development, Arvind Kejriwal has resigned as Chief Minister of Delhi, handing over the reins to his Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) colleague Atishi. This decision comes just days after Kejriwal’s release on bail in connection with the Delhi liquor policy case.
Kejriwal met with Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena on Tuesday evening to formally submit his resignation. Shortly afterward, Atishi addressed the media, acknowledging the emotional nature of the moment for the party and the people of Delhi. She reassured the public that their commitment is to bring Kejriwal back as Chief Minister.
Atishi Takes Charge
Atishi, who has been a prominent member of Kejriwal’s cabinet, was unanimously chosen as the leader of AAP’s legislative party earlier in the day. She will take over as Chief Minister until the next Assembly elections, which are expected in February next year, although Kejriwal has called for an early election, possibly as soon as next month.
Speaking to reporters, Atishi expressed her gratitude for the trust placed in her by both Kejriwal and the AAP. “This is an emotional moment for the party and the people. Kejriwal is the only Chief Minister of Delhi, and our mission is to bring him back to his rightful place,” she said.
AAP’s Fight Against BJP
Atishi also used the occasion to denounce the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of fabricating charges against Kejriwal in an attempt to weaken the AAP before the upcoming elections. She vowed to stand firm against these alleged conspiracies and continue the work initiated by Kejriwal.
Kejriwal’s resignation has sparked a wave of reactions, with the BJP questioning his decision and calling it a political move ahead of elections. AAP supporters, however, view it as a strategic step that allows the party to take its case directly to the voters.
Kejriwal’s Legal Troubles
Kejriwal’s resignation follows months of legal battles stemming from his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in March and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in June on charges of money laundering and corruption linked to the liquor policy case. The Supreme Court, while granting him bail, emphasized that his prolonged incarceration amounted to an unjust deprivation of liberty. However, the conditions of his bail prevent him from signing government orders or files without approval from the Lieutenant Governor.
In his post-bail statement, Kejriwal announced that he would now seek “justice from the people’s court” and encouraged voters to decide his future based on his performance as Chief Minister.
Looking Ahead
With Atishi now in charge, AAP will gear up for the next election, focusing on its achievements in the areas of education, health, and public services. Atishi, known for her work in Delhi’s education reforms, has become a strong face of the party and will lead the campaign in the coming months.
