Kejriwal’s Exit and Atishi’s Rise: What’s the Story Behind Delhi’s Leadership Shake-Up?

Kejriwal’s Exit and Atishi’s Rise: What’s the Story Behind Delhi’s Leadership Shake-Up?

In February 2013, Arvind Kejriwal assumed a prominent role in Delhi’s political landscape as Chief Minister, spearheading numerous reforms and initiatives that have significantly shaped the city. As of September 2024, Kejriwal has announced his decision to step down from his position, citing a combination of personal and strategic factors, and is passing the baton to Atishi. Let’s take a closer examination of his tenure and the current developments.

Arvind Kejriwal’s Tenure

• First Term: February 2013 – February 2014
• Second Term: February 2015 – Present (as of September 2024)

Legal Challenges: Kejriwal also encountered several legal challenges:

• Defamation Case (2014)
• Liquor Policy Case (2023)
• Procurement Irregularities Case (2024)

He was placed under arrest on March 21, 2024, and subsequently released on bail on September 13, 2024.

Atishi – Delhi’s Youngest Chief Minister

At just 43, Atishi has made history as the youngest and third woman to assume the role of Chief Minister of Delhi. Her influential roles in the Delhi cabinet include overseeing key portfolios such as water, finance, power, and education.

With senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders recently incarcerated, Atishi has emerged as a prominent figure, effectively representing the party and solidifying her status as a formidable leader.

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Raised by professors with Marxist ideals, she completed her undergraduate studies at Delhi University and earned a master’s degree from the University of Oxford.

Before her political career, Atishi taught in Karnataka and engaged in alternative farming and education reforms in Madhya Pradesh. She joined AAP in 2013 and played a crucial role in reforming Delhi’s public schools as an advisor to former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia. Her dedication to education reform earned her a seat in the Delhi Assembly in 2020.

In 2019, Atishi contested the parliamentary elections but was defeated by former cricketer Gautam Gambhir. Earlier this year, she drew national attention by undertaking an indefinite hunger strike to draw attention to Delhi’s severe water crisis during the intense summer months.