Delhi’s political landscape is set for a dramatic change as Arvind Kejriwal, leader of the Aam Aadmi Party, has announced his decision to resign as Chief Minister within the next two days. This surprising move comes right after his release from jail on bail in the controversial Delhi Excise Policy scam. Kejriwal’s decision to step down is being viewed by many as a high-stakes manoeuvre aimed at shifting the political narrative and strengthening his party’s position ahead of the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, scheduled for February 2025.

Kejriwal’s Resignation: A Calculated Gamble

Kejriwal’s resignation has triggered a storm of speculation about his real intentions. Some political analysts suggest that it is a tactical retreat rather than a show of moral uprightness. The Aam Aadmi Party leader has emphasised that he will not assume the office of Chief Minister again unless he secures a fresh mandate from the people of Delhi. Kejriwal has stated that his future rests in the hands of the voters, urging them to decide whether he is “honest or a criminal.” His bold rhetoric and decision to resign are seen as an attempt to regain public sympathy and corner his political adversaries, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress, ahead of the upcoming elections.

Legal and Administrative Hurdles Force Kejriwal’s Hand

Several factors may have influenced Kejriwal’s decision to resign. According to sources, the Supreme Court’s decision to restrict Kejriwal from performing official duties due to his involvement in the liquor policy scam created a governance paralysis. Without the ability to sign official files or attend office, his effectiveness as Chief Minister was severely compromised. Continuing in such a role could have diminished Aam Aadmi Party’s effectiveness in Delhi, leaving it vulnerable in the lead-up to the elections.

Moreover, there was a growing threat that the central government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party, could impose President’s Rule in Delhi. Such a move could delay the Assembly elections by up to six months. The delay would weaken the momentum generated by Kejriwal’s release from jail, making it more difficult for him to leverage public sympathy during the elections.

AAP’s Dilemma: Who Will Replace Kejriwal?

With Kejriwal’s resignation imminent, the focus now shifts to who will succeed him as the next Chief Minister of Delhi. The process is complicated, given the dominant personality of Kejriwal within the Aam Aadmi Party. It is likely that the successor will be handpicked by Kejriwal himself, approved by party legislators. Senior party leader and former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia is a name that frequently comes up in discussions, although the final decision will be made after a meeting of AAP’s Members of the Legislative Assembly. Party insiders suggest that the new Chief Minister could be chosen strategically to appeal to caste and regional dynamics, with an eye on both Delhi and Haryana elections.

Opposition Reactions: Opportunity or Concern?

The opposition parties, particularly the BJP and the Indian National Congress, have responded cautiously but critically to Kejriwal’s decision to resign. BJP leaders have called it a “public relations stunt,” suggesting that Kejriwal is attempting to divert attention from the corruption allegations against him. Meanwhile, the Congress sees this as a golden opportunity to regain some lost ground in Delhi by presenting themselves as a stable alternative to the perceived instability within the Aam Aadmi Party.

Expert Opinion: Will This Move Pay Off for Kejriwal?

Political experts remain divided on whether this bold move will benefit Kejriwal and Aam Aadmi Party in the long run. Kejriwal’s resignation could either be seen as an act of defiance against the system or as a sign of desperation. It is a risky gambit, and much depends on how effectively Aam Aadmi Party can manage this transition and whether they can turn this potential crisis into an opportunity.

Timing is crucial in politics, and if Kejriwal’s demand for early elections in November, alongside those in Maharashtra and Jharkhand, is accepted, it could complicate matters for the Election Commission and possibly favour AAP by leveraging current public sentiments.

The Road Ahead: Uncertain but Full of Possibilities

While Kejriwal’s move has added an element of unpredictability to Delhi’s political environment, it has also opened the door for numerous possibilities. Whether this decision will lead to a renewed mandate from the people of Delhi or backfire remains to be seen. For now, Aam Aadmi Party must prepare for an internal transition while staying focused on its broader electoral strategy.

  Aam Aadmi Party, Arvind Kejriwal, Bharatiya Janata Party, Delhi, Delhi Assembly Elections, Indian National Congress, Manish Sisodia, Supreme Court of India