Atishi, a prominent leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has been selected as the next Chief Minister of Delhi. The decision was reached unanimously during a meeting of AAP legislators on Tuesday, following a proposal made by Arvind Kejriwal to name her as his successor.
Arvind Kejriwal, who had been released from jail on Friday, announced on Sunday his decision to step down as Chief Minister. He mentioned that he would only return to the role if given a certificate of honesty by the people of Delhi.
Atishi is a central figure in both the AAP and the Delhi government, currently managing several significant portfolios, including finance, education, and public works.
Key Highlights about Atishi:
- Architect of Education Reforms: Atishi played a crucial role in transforming Delhi’s public education system. She spearheaded initiatives like the “Entrepreneurship Mindset Curriculum” and the “Happiness Curriculum,” aimed at improving the quality of education in government schools. These efforts were undertaken while she served as an advisor to the Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia.
- Political Career: Atishi represents the Kalkaji constituency in the Delhi Legislative Assembly and is a senior AAP leader. She gained early recognition as an advisor in the Delhi government’s education department before being elected as an MLA in 2020.
- Academic Background: An alumnus of Delhi University’s St. Stephen’s College, Atishi pursued her higher education at the University of Oxford under a Chevening Scholarship. Her studies in education have significantly influenced her approach to school reforms.
- Delhi Cabinet Minister: Following the resignations of Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain due to legal challenges, Atishi was inducted into the Delhi cabinet in March 2023. She took charge of key ministries, including education, public works, power, and tourism.
- Advocate for Environmental Sustainability: Beyond education, Atishi has been an active proponent of environmental policies. She has worked to advance initiatives in renewable energy, pollution reduction, and sustainability measures in the capital.
This leadership transition marks a significant moment for the Aam Aadmi Party and its vision for the future of Delhi.
