Atishi To Be Delhi CM As AAP In Damage Control Mode Post Liquorgate

New Delhi: Minister Atishi Marlena will become the new Chief Minister of Delhi, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) announced on Tuesday. This announcement came two days after CM Arvind Kejriwal announced his resignation on September 15. 

This name was revealed following a crucial legislative party meeting held at Kejriwal's residence earlier today. 

As per AAP Sources, Kejriwal proposed the name of Delhi Minister Atishi as the new face for the Chief Ministerial post and it was unanimously accepted by the AAP MLAs. She has been elected as the leader of Delhi AAP Legislative Party. Speculations over new CM face came to an end after CM Kejriwal made the announcement. Notably, Atishi holds multiple portfolios in the Delhi cabinet. 

Soon after Atishi's name was announced to replace Kejriwal as the CM, Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai addressed a press briefing. Gopal Rai affirmed that the AAP governnent will continue to work for people of Delhi. He added that Atishi will play her role under the guidance of the AAP supremo.

He said, "We will continue to work for the 2 crore people of Delhi. She will work under the guidance of Kejriwal. And protect the people of Delhi..."

Rai added that Kejriwal will go to the LG VK Saxena to tender his resignation at 4.30 pm today. After that, legislative party will stake claim to form the government. 

Atishi May Take Oath During Special Assembly Session

As per sources, the deputy CM post would remain vacant and Atishi may take oath during a special Assembly session, which would be held on September 26-27.

Kejriwal To Step Down Today

Meawhile, Delhi Chief Minister Kejriwal is set to quit officially later today, a day after party leaders held a key meeting at his residence to discuss the probable faces for the chief ministerial post. The AAP supremo is also scheduled to meet Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena and tender his resignation as Chief Minister. 

Notably, Kejriwal disclosed his bold move that left many in political circles off guards, on Sunday, two days after he walked out of Tihar jail. He was released from Tihar Jail on Friday evening following the Supreme Court's bail order in a corruption case linked to the alleged Delhi Excise Policy scandal.

Bold Move by Kejriwal Ahead of Delhi Polls

The move holds even more significance given it comes few months ahead of assembly elections in the national capital. Disclosing reason behind two-day delay in submission of Kejriwal's resignation after public announcement, AAP MLA Saurabh Bharadwaj said that the day Kejriwal announced his resignation was Sunday and Monday is a public holiday on account of Eid. He added that Tuesday is the first working day of the week when the CM will tender resignation.

With Kejriwal's announcement to resign, the political corridors in the national capital became abuzz as the AAP national convener also called for early elections. CM Kejriwal has vowed to not resume the role until the people of Delhi affirm his honesty. Kejriwal stated that if the public votes for him, it will serve as a certification of his integrity. He also mentioned that he would seek early elections alongside Maharashtra .