23 september 2024 : On Monday, Atishi assumed the role of chief minister, leaving a chair vacant for Arvind Kejriwal, stating it will remain in her office until the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief returns to his position after the February 2025 elections.
“I have taken charge… I share the same pain Bharat felt during Lord Shri Ram’s 14-year exile. Just as Bharat managed Ayodhya with Ram’s slippers, I will govern Delhi for the next four months,” Atishi said.
She emphasized that Lord Ram’s life exemplifies morality, similar to the standard set by Kejriwal in Indian politics. She criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for launching attacks against Kejriwal, leading to his arrest for six months. The Supreme Court, upon granting him bail, noted that his arrest was motivated by malice.
Atishi remarked that Kejriwal will not occupy the vacant chair until the public acknowledges his honesty, asserting that while he resigned, the chief minister’s seat rightfully belongs to him.
She expressed confidence that Delhi would re-elect Kejriwal in the upcoming assembly elections, stating, “This chair will remain in this room, awaiting Arvind Kejriwal.”
Kejriwal resigned on September 17, shortly after being released on bail related to alleged corruption in the now-repealed 2021-22 Delhi excise policy case. He announced his resignation to counter the “false cases and allegations” against him and to garner public support for his return to office.
He described the upcoming Delhi assembly election as a “trial by fire,” urging voters to support him based on their belief in his integrity. “If you think I am honest, vote for me. If you think otherwise, then do not vote for me,” Kejriwal stated.
