From education reformer to Delhi CM—the rise of Atishi
What's the story
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi is set to become the next Chief Minister of Delhi after Arvind Kejriwal's resignation. The decision was finalized during an AAP leaders' meeting on Tuesday. At 43, Atishi currently oversees the education and Public Works Department portfolios in the Delhi government. Her rise to this prominent position comes amidst significant changes within the AAP's leadership structure.
Power shift
Leadership vacuum propels Atishi's rise
Atishi's ascent to the chief ministerial role was marked by monumental shifts in the AAP's internal dynamics, with senior leaders like Manish Sisodia and Satyendar Jain embroiled in legal battles. Both Sisodia and Jain resigned from their positions following their arrests, creating a vacuum within the AAP leadership. This paved the way for Atishi, an MLA from Kalkaji, who entered the Delhi cabinet in March 2023 after Sisodia's resignation over a now-scrapped Delhi liquor policy case.
Career highlights
Atishi's academic credentials and public service experience
Atishi, a Rhodes Scholar and Oxford University alumnus, has an impressive academic background. Her experience in public service is particularly notable in the education sector. She was a major architect behind Delhi's education reforms and spearheaded AAP's efforts to improve government schools, a hallmark initiative of Kejriwal's administration. Since joining the Delhi cabinet, she has been instrumental in steering key governmental projects and often served as the public face of the party during Kejriwal and Sisodia's legal challenges.
Political journey
Atishi's early career and rise in AAP
Atishi began her career working with grassroots organizations before joining AAP and rapidly rising through the ranks. Her role as an education reformer earned her national recognition, and her involvement in addressing pressing issues like Delhi's water crisis and women's safety strengthened her public image. During the 2023 Independence Day celebrations, she was chosen to hoist the national flag at the Delhi government's official event, although this plan was halted by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena.