New Delhi: In a significant political development, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi was sworn in as the youngest and third woman Chief Minister of Delhi. The oath-taking ceremony, held at Raj Niwas, was administered by Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena. This marks a new chapter for the AAP as it continues to consolidate its political dominance in the capital, securing its fourth consecutive term in office.

Atishi, who follows in the footsteps of former women Chief Ministers Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit, took over after Arvind Kejriwal formally stepped down from the post earlier this week. Kejriwal’s resignation was accepted by President Droupadi Murmu, and Atishi’s election as leader of the AAP Legislature Party led to her appointment. She becomes the 17th woman to hold the position of Chief Minister in India.

The swearing-in ceremony was attended by key AAP figures, including Manish Sisodia, Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora, and Chief Secretary Dharmendra. Atishi was joined by five other newly appointed ministers, including Gopal Rai, Kailash Gahlot, Saurabh Bharadwaj, Imran Hussain, and newly elected Sultanpur Majra MLA Mukesh Ahlawat, all of whom took their oaths as members of her cabinet.

Renowned for her academic background as a Rhodes Scholar with two master's degrees, Atishi’s political journey has been marked by her pivotal role in shaping AAP’s education and public welfare policies. Her elevation to the Chief Minister’s office is seen as a recognition of her commitment to governance and reform, particularly her transformative work in Delhi's government schools during her tenure as an advisor to former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia.

While Kejriwal had no assigned portfolio during his tenure as CM, Atishi is expected to take charge of key ministries such as finance, education, public works department (PWD), and power. AAP leaders have indicated that she will focus on governance, allowing Kejriwal to concentrate on national politics and the party’s poll strategies.

Atishi’s appointment is viewed as a significant moment not only for the AAP but for Delhi politics as a whole, as she steps into a leadership role at a critical time for the party. With a reputation for strategic insight and a dedication to public service, her tenure as Chief Minister is anticipated to bring renewed focus to AAP’s governance agenda.