Is Atishi just a puppet? Arvind Kejriwal resigns but stays in control – Delhi politics heats up

In a dramatic political twist, Arvind Kejriwal has resigned as Chief Minister of Delhi, opening the path for Atishi to stake her claim to form a new government. The Aam Aadmi Party’s decision comes amid mounting legal and political challenges, creating a fresh wave of uncertainty in Delhi’s political landscape. Kejriwal’s resignation is seen as a significant strategic shift, possibly indicating deeper trouble for the Aam Aadmi Party as it prepares for the upcoming Assembly elections.

Atishi stakes her claim: a new era for delhi?

Atishi, a long-time confidante of Arvind Kejriwal, has been proposed as the next Chief Minister by the Aam Aadmi Party, a move unanimously supported by AAP legislators. Known for her sharp intellect and deep understanding of governance, Atishi will face the daunting task of leading the party and the Delhi government amid intense scrutiny and opposition. Her appointment comes at a time when the Aam Aadmi Party is facing fierce political attacks from the Bharatiya Janata Party and criticism from the Indian National Congress.

Sources within the Aam Aadmi Party suggest that Kejriwal’s resignation is a tactical maneuver in response to a court order restricting his involvement due to his entanglement in a controversial liquor policy case. While some party leaders like Gopal Rai have highlighted Atishi’s capabilities and her commitment to fighting “attempts to destabilise the government,” critics argue that this move reflects internal turmoil within the party.

Opposition questions timing and motives

The opposition, including leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party and Indian National Congress, has been quick to question the timing of Kejriwal’s resignation. Delhi Congress chief Devender Yadav accused the Aam Aadmi Party of being “exposed” before the public, stating that Kejriwal’s resignation is not based on moral grounds but is rather a forced response to judicial pressure. He remarked that Kejriwal’s decision to step down now, rather than earlier, exposes his intent to avoid accountability.

Meanwhile, Bharatiya Janata Party leaders have also criticised the move. BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj expressed disappointment over Atishi’s appointment, questioning whether she would be an independent leader or merely a figurehead while Kejriwal continues to control the government from behind the scenes.

Atishi’s uphill battle: preparing for elections amid controversy

As Atishi prepares to assume the role of Chief Minister, her immediate challenges are twofold: maintaining stability within the Delhi government and gearing up for the crucial Assembly elections slated for early next year. An Oxford University graduate and Rhodes Scholar, Atishi has been praised for her work in improving Delhi’s education system. However, her leadership will be tested as she navigates the charged political environment and counters opposition accusations.

Political analysts suggest that Atishi’s appointment could either rejuvenate the Aam Aadmi Party’s image or deepen its crisis, depending on how she manages her new role. Given the current circumstances, her ability to maintain AAP’s stronghold in Delhi will be critical. Without a Deputy Chief Minister, Atishi will also face the pressure of managing multiple portfolios, including education, finance, and public works, while leading the campaign for the upcoming elections.

Expert opinion: a calculated risk or a desperate move?

Political experts noted that Kejriwal’s resignation could be a “calculated risk” aimed at salvaging AAP’s political capital in Delhi. The positioning Atishi as the Chief Minister might help AAP present a fresh face to counter allegations of corruption and mismanagement, thereby retaining its voter base. However, it has to be cautioned that if Atishi is perceived as a mere puppet of Kejriwal, the move could backfire, leading to significant electoral losses for AAP.

Atishi’s rapid rise from a political advisor to a potential Chief Minister demonstrates AAP’s gamble to regain public trust. The coming weeks will reveal whether this decision was a stroke of political genius or a desperate attempt to stay afloat in turbulent political waters.

The road ahead: challenges and opportunities

As Delhi braces for a new leadership under Atishi, the political dynamics in the city are set to undergo a significant transformation. While the Aam Aadmi Party hopes to use this leadership change to reset its image and regain public trust, opposition parties are likely to intensify their attacks, framing Kejriwal’s resignation and Atishi’s elevation as a sign of AAP’s instability.

The coming months will be crucial for Atishi to establish herself as a capable leader, not just a successor. Her success or failure will likely shape the Aam Aadmi Party’s future and its ability to govern Delhi for another term.