Arvind Kejriwal, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor, is set to vacate his official residence in Delhi’s Civil Lines and move to a new address within the next two days.
The new residence will be located in the New Delhi Assembly constituency, where Kejriwal serves as an MLA. Party sources revealed this on Wednesday, adding that Kejriwal is keen to stay connected with the people of his constituency by choosing a home close to them.
The decision comes after a search for a suitable property, with Kejriwal seeking a place that is free of any disputes and where he can comfortably reside. According to an AAP statement, the search has intensified in recent days, with many MLAs, party workers, and even common citizens offering their homes to the AAP leader. The party stressed that Kejriwal prefers to stay in the New Delhi area to maintain a close relationship with his constituents.
This development follows Kejriwal's resignation as Chief Minister of Delhi on September 17, which he submitted to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena. His resignation came after his release on bail from Tihar Jail in connection with the excise policy case.
Kejriwal expressed his intention to return to the post of Chief Minister only if he receives a renewed mandate from the people of Delhi in the assembly elections, expected to take place in February 2025. He stated that he would resume his role if the voters of Delhi provide him with a "certificate of honesty."
Following Kejriwal's resignation, Atishi, a senior AAP leader, took over as the new Chief Minister of Delhi. She was sworn in on September 22, becoming the third woman to hold the position in Delhi, following in the footsteps of Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit. Atishi's appointment to the post was made with the blessing of Kejriwal, who named her as his successor.
Atishi, in a symbolic gesture during her swearing-in ceremony, placed an empty chair beside hers, indicating that the chair belonged to Kejriwal. She expressed her admiration for the former Chief Minister and compared her role to that of Bharat, who ruled in place of Lord Ram during his exile, by keeping his sandals on the throne.
Atishi said that she would serve as Chief Minister for the next four months but remains confident that Kejriwal would soon return to lead Delhi. As Atishi took charge, she conveyed her strong belief that Kejriwal would return as Chief Minister after the upcoming elections.
Her words reflected the sentiment within the AAP that Kejriwal remains the leader who can guide Delhi forward. Atishi has vowed to continue Kejriwal's work and ensure that the government functions effectively during his absence. She emphasised her dedication to the people of Delhi and her desire to maintain continuity in governance until Kejriwal's anticipated return.
The transition of power comes at a crucial time for the AAP, as the party gears up for the upcoming Delhi assembly elections. Atishi's leadership is seen as a temporary yet significant chapter in the AAP's journey, and the party is keen to convey to the public that Kejriwal's absence is not permanent. The party is rallying behind Kejriwal, with hopes pinned on his return and a renewed mandate from the people of Delhi.
Kejriwal's resignation was a surprise to many, given his popularity and his role in shaping Delhi's development over the years. However, the move is being seen as a strategic step, possibly aimed at distancing himself from the controversies surrounding the excise policy case and allowing the legal process to take its course without affecting governance.
The AAP has positioned Atishi as a capable leader who can carry forward Kejriwal's vision while he focuses on clearing his name and preparing for a potential comeback.
Atishi's rise to the position of Chief Minister marks a historic moment for Delhi, as she joins the ranks of the few women who have held the state's top office.
Her appointment also signals AAP's commitment to promoting women in leadership roles. Known for her work in education and public policy, Atishi has been a prominent figure in Delhi's governance, and her elevation to Chief Minister is seen as a recognition of her contributions to the party and the people of Delhi.
The next few months will be critical for both Atishi and Kejriwal, as they work to maintain the public's trust and support ahead of the upcoming elections. Atishi's role will be to ensure that the government continues to function smoothly, while Kejriwal will need to reconnect with the people and prepare for a possible return to the Chief Minister's chair.
With the upcoming elections just months away, AAP faces the challenge of navigating this period of transition while also preparing for the campaign ahead.
The party will need to address any concerns that may arise due to Kejriwal's resignation, and it will need to convince voters that his decision was in the best interest of Delhi. Atishi's leadership during this time will be closely watched, as it could play a significant role in shaping the outcome of the elections.
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