On Monday, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi held her inaugural meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking a significant moment in her new leadership role.
This meeting is notable as it is the first time she has engaged with the Prime Minister since assuming office.
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) shared a brief announcement on social media platform X, stating, “Chief Minister of Delhi, @AtishiAAP called on PM @narendramodi.
Chief Minister of Delhi, @AtishiAAP called on PM @narendramodi. pic.twitter.com/ZDXxMOhURx
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) October 14, 2024
In a subsequent post, Atishi expressed her optimism for collaboration between the central government and Delhi’s administration, stating, ” I look forward to full cooperation between the Centre and the Delhi government for the welfare and progress of our capital.”
Called on Hon’ble Prime Minister @narendramodi ji today. I look forward to full cooperation between the Centre and the Delhi government for the welfare and progress of our capital. https://t.co/eNzGsQQSHw
— Atishi (@AtishiAAP) October 14, 2024
Atishi Emphasizes Loyalty To Kejriwal Amid Challenges
Atishi succeeded Arvind Kejriwal as Chief Minister on 17 September but officially took charge on 25 September.
In her speech, she drew a parallel to the epic Ramayana, comparing her leadership transition to Bharat’s decision to refrain from claiming Lord Ram’s throne, a testament to her loyalty to Kejriwal.
She notably pointed to an empty chair, emphasizing that it would remain vacant until Kejriwal returns to power.
As the third woman and the youngest individual to hold the position of Chief Minister in Delhi, Atishi’s ascent comes at a tumultuous time.
Her tenure follows Kejriwal’s resignation amid ongoing controversies related to a Supreme Court ruling concerning the liquor policy scam.
Atishi represents the Kalkaji constituency and steps into her role amidst rising tensions between her Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the national level.
One of the contentious issues at hand is the allotment of the Chief Minister’s official residence, Sheesh Mahal, alongside concerns from the Finance Ministry about a projected revenue deficit in Delhi for the first time in history.
These challenges are expected to exacerbate the political rivalry between the AAP and BJP, especially as Delhi prepares for elections early next year.
The Aam Aadmi Party has called for the Election Commission to align Delhi’s polls with those in Maharashtra and Jharkhand, further heightening the political stakes.
As Atishi embarks on her leadership journey, the focus will be on navigating these pressing issues while fostering cooperation with the central government to advance the interests of Delhi’s residents.
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