New Delhi: In a significant political shift, Atishi has taken over as the new Chief Minister of Delhi, succeeding Arvind Kejriwal, a leader with whom she shares a long-standing relationship, dating back to before the foundation of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). This elevation fills the vacancy left by Kejriwal’s resignation, marking a new chapter in Delhi’s political landscape. Atishi’s appointment as CM, however, leaves a gap in her previous heavy-duty ministries, signalling that new faces are expected to join the Delhi cabinet.
Cabinet Expansion and New Faces in the Government
Atishi’s rise to the top post has triggered a cabinet shake-up. With her transition to the chief ministerial role, her ministerial seat has been left vacant, creating opportunities for fresh leadership. Additionally, Rajkumar Anand’s resignation in April 2024 further opens up space in the cabinet. Anand, who represented the Dalit community, resigned when Kejriwal was jailed, and no replacement was appointed at the time. Now, two cabinet positions need to be filled, and it is expected that one of these will go to a Dalit MLA, ensuring representation.
The second vacancy remains a matter of speculation. Sources suggest that AAP might opt for a candidate who either belongs to the influential Vaishya community or has political clout in constituencies bordering Haryana.
Deputy Chief Minister on the Horizon?
Atishi’s ascent has reignited discussions about the Deputy Chief Minister role, which has remained vacant since Manish Sisodia’s resignation. Although Atishi herself was inducted into the cabinet after Sisodia stepped down, she was not appointed Deputy CM. With the latest developments, there is now a growing possibility that the party will appoint a Dalit leader to the position to balance political equations and strengthen their appeal to marginalised communities.
However, the final decision on this remains with Arvind Kejriwal, who still holds significant influence within the party.
Atishi’s Elevated Status in AAP’s Hierarchy
Atishi, who has historically been positioned in the second tier of AAP leadership, is now poised to enter the party’s frontline. During Kejriwal’s recent appearance at AAP headquarters, Atishi was seen seated in the second row, behind stalwarts like Sanjay Singh, Raghav Chadha, and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann. Now, with her new responsibilities as Delhi’s CM, Atishi is expected to join the party’s most senior ranks, solidifying her role as a key player in AAP’s future.
In terms of campaign responsibilities, Atishi’s new status will likely see her name rise in the party’s star campaigner lists. In previous election campaigns, her ranking was lower than other AAP leaders, but that is expected to change as she takes on a more prominent role ahead of Delhi’s next assembly election in February 2025.
Atishi’s Political Journey
Atishi’s journey to political prominence began during the Anna Hazare anti-corruption movement, where she worked closely with Kejriwal before formally joining AAP. Her first attempt at electoral politics came in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections when she contested from East Delhi but lost to BJP’s Gautam Gambhir. Undeterred, she went on to contest and win the Kalkaji seat in the 2020 Delhi Assembly elections, marking her entry into Delhi’s legislature.
In 2023, she was inducted into the Kejriwal cabinet, where she handled crucial portfolios, including finance. Now, as she steps into the role of Chief Minister, Atishi’s stature within the party and her influence in Delhi politics are set to grow further.
As the AAP reshuffles its leadership and prepares for the upcoming elections, Atishi’s appointment marks a turning point for the party and the capital. With key decisions looming, Delhi is on the cusp of significant political changes.
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