Delhi Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena has proposed September 21 for the swearing-in ceremony of Atishi as the new Chief Minister of Delhi, following Arvind Kejriwal’s resignation from the position. The announcement was made on Wednesday, with the ceremony expected to be held at Raj Niwas in a “low-key affair,” reflecting the circumstances surrounding Kejriwal’s departure.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has confirmed that Kejriwal will forgo all security and vacate the chief minister’s residence within 15 days. The move is part of his commitment to live like a “commoner,” setting an example of simplicity and sacrifice. Kejriwal had previously traveled in an old blue Wagon R car, even during his tenure as chief minister, and has expressed his intention to maintain his lifestyle after stepping down.
AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh elaborated on Kejriwal’s decision, stating that despite concerns for his security due to past attacks, Kejriwal remains steadfast in his choice to relinquish government-provided security and move out of the official residence. The party is currently searching for alternative accommodation for Kejriwal and his family.
Atishi’s appointment as the new chief minister marks a significant transition for Delhi’s political landscape. The buzz around her new council of ministers is growing, with speculation that former ministers Gopal Rai, Kailash Gehlot, Saurabh Bharadwaj, and Imran Hussain will be retained. Two additional MLAs may be inducted to fill vacancies created by previous resignations.
The Delhi Assembly is scheduled to meet on September 26-27 to allow Atishi to prove her majority. With elections approaching, the composition of her cabinet is expected to reflect a cautious approach, with familiar faces likely retaining their positions.
AAP has also warned that a potential BJP government could halt key welfare schemes, including free electricity, mohalla clinics, and educational initiatives. In response, Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva accused AAP of misleading the public, stating that recent assurances from the Lieutenant Governor confirm the continuation of these services.
In the wake of Kejriwal’s resignation, AAP plans to hold rallies and interactions to gauge public sentiment about his legacy and address concerns about his departure. Sandeep Pathak, AAP’s national general secretary, defended Kejriwal’s decision to resign, emphasizing his commitment to democracy and the Constitution.
Sources By Agencies
