Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Atishi, a prominent leader from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), officially took charge as the eighth Chief Minister of Delhi today following Arvind Kejriwal’s resignation. In her first speech as Chief Minister, Atishi drew a symbolic comparison to the Hindu epic Ramayana, stating, “My situation is like that of Bharat, when Lord Shri Ramwent into exile, and Bharat had to govern in his absence.”
Atishi, 43, pledged to lead the Delhi government for the next four months until the upcoming elections, much like how Bharat ruled with Lord Ram’s ‘khadaun’ (sandals) on the throne during Ram’s absence.
Symbolic Gesture Towards Arvind Kejriwal
Upon assuming office, Atishi made a grand gesture by placing an empty chair next to her own, symbolizing the continued presence of her party chief, Arvind Kejriwal. She remarked, “This chair belongs to Arvind Kejriwal. I am confident that the people of Delhi will reinstate him after four months.”
Atishi was sworn in alongside her cabinet on Saturday, with key members retaining their portfolios from the previous Kejriwal government. She herself oversees crucial departments, including education, finance, power, and PWD, managing a total of 13 portfolios.
New and Retained Cabinet Members
While Atishi takes on the most significant responsibilities, Saurabh Bharadwaj, who holds eight portfolios, also assumed office on the same day. Meanwhile, newcomer Mukesh Ahlawat has been entrusted with departments such as labour, SC/ST, and employment. Gopal Rai retains his roles in development, environment, and general administration.
As Atishi leads the government through the next few months, the Delhi elections loom large, and the AAP hopes for Kejriwal’s return to the Chief Minister’s office.
