After Manish Sisodia’s arrest in the 2023 excise policy case, Atishi was chosen by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to succeed him as a Cabinet minister. Now, the party has handed her two critical responsibilities: ensuring Arvind Kejriwal is re-elected as Delhi’s Chief Minister and pushing forward crucial welfare schemes. This comes amid the ongoing power tussle between the AAP government and the Lieutenant Governor (L-G) V K Saxena.
Former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who worked closely with Atishi during his tenure as Education Minister, praised her capabilities and outlined her key tasks. He emphasized that Atishi must ensure that Kejriwal returns as CM and continue schemes like free electricity, healthcare, and education, which have been pivotal to the AAP’s governance model. Sisodia expressed confidence in Atishi’s ability to protect Delhi’s citizens from what he termed the “BJP’s terror.”
Delhi Minister Atishi With senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia at the latter’s residence after she was elected the Chief Minister-designate by the party, in New Delhi, Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2024.
Challenges Ahead for Atishi
Atishi has also been tasked with defending the government’s popular schemes, which the BJP may try to disrupt ahead of the elections. Sisodia warned that the BJP might attempt to halt critical services like free electricity, school and hospital improvements, and the distribution of free medicines. He expressed concern that the BJP would use every possible tactic to undermine the AAP’s achievements in order to create hardship for Delhi residents. Atishi’s role will be crucial in ensuring that these services continue without disruption.
Following Kejriwal’s arrest, many public service projects, including road infrastructure and public schemes, have slowed. Senior AAP leaders believe Atishi must revive and implement major projects, such as the Mahila Samman Rashi Yojana, to maintain the party’s influence over middle and lower-income voters—key constituencies that have supported AAP in past elections.
Navigating Bureaucratic Hurdles
In addition to political challenges, Atishi will need to work closely with Delhi’s bureaucracy, which has had several clashes with the AAP government. This friction has been compounded by the recent amendments to the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Act, which created the National Capital Civil Services Authority (NCCSA). The NCCSA plays a critical role in bureaucratic matters such as transfers and postings, and its decisions can be determined by a two-vote majority from the Chief Secretary and Additional Chief Secretary, creating potential roadblocks for Atishi.
No Cabinet Reshuffle, but Vacancies Remain
As Atishi steps into her new role, sources within AAP confirmed that there are no immediate plans for a cabinet reshuffle. However, two positions will remain vacant following her promotion. Names like Kuldeep Kumar, Vishesh Ravi, Durgesh Pathak, Dilip Pandey, and Sanjeev Jha are being considered to fill these roles.
Atishi’s new responsibilities highlight the crucial period ahead for AAP as they prepare for the upcoming elections. With the need to defend their governance model against BJP’s strategies and push forward key initiatives, Atishi’s leadership will be pivotal in shaping the party’s future.
Atishi’s elevation to this critical role also signals a strategic shift for AAP as they prepare to battle both at the ballot box and in governance. Her previous experience in education reforms and policy implementation will be key assets as she navigates the political and administrative landscape of Delhi. With the BJP intensifying its efforts to challenge AAP’s popular policies, Atishi’s ability to effectively communicate the government’s achievements and counter opposition narratives will be essential. Additionally, her leadership will likely influence AAP’s long-term strategy, as the party looks to expand its national presence beyond Delhi while securing its home turf. Her success in these dual responsibilities will not only define her political future but also shape AAP’s trajectory in the crucial months ahead.