Atishi to become Delhi's new chief minister after Kejriwal's resignation

New Delhi: Delhi Minister Atishi Marlena is set to become the new chief minister following Arvind Kejriwal’s resignation after his meeting with Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena this afternoon.

The decision was finalized during an Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders' meeting held today.

During the meeting, party leader Dilip Pandey suggested that Mr Kejriwal choose his successor. When Mr. Kejriwal proposed Atishi's name, all AAP MLAs unanimously supported the decision, and she was elected as the leader of the legislature party, according to sources.

Currently serving in key roles in the Delhi government, including education and public works, Atishi is a prominent figure in AAP’s education reform initiatives. She is an Oxford University alumnus and Rhodes scholar with extensive experience in transforming Delhi's schools.

The 43-year-old MLA from Kalkaji assumed ministerial duties after Manish Sisodia was arrested in connection with a corruption case related to Delhi's former liquor policy. During the period when Kejriwal and Sisodia were in custody, Atishi effectively represented the party’s stance.

On August 15, Kejriwal had selected her to hoist the national flag at the Delhi government's Independence Day event. Although the plan was ultimately blocked by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, it underscored the trust AAP leadership has in Atishi.