Arvind Kejriwal submits resignation to LG

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal submitted his resignation to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena, marking a significant shift in the capital’s political landscape. Kejriwal, facing corruption charges in connection with the Delhi Excise Policy case, stepped down on moral grounds after being released on bail. In his resignation, he stated he would only return as CM after receiving the people’s “certificate of honesty” in the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections.

Atishi, AAP’s Finance Minister, was nominated as his successor during a party meeting. A first-time MLA, Atishi expressed gratitude to Kejriwal and the party for the opportunity. She will be the third woman to serve as Delhi's CM, joining the ranks of Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit.

Kejriwal’s decision comes months before the scheduled February 2025 Assembly elections, with his party demanding early polls. His resignation and Atishi’s nomination are seen as part of a broader strategy to shift focus from governance to campaigning, as AAP leaders, including Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh, also face legal challenges. Atishi will now form a new council of ministers upon receiving approval from the President of India.

Atishi reaffirmed her loyalty to Kejriwal, stating that "Delhi has only one CM, and his name is Arvind Kejriwal," while pledging to carry forward his vision and work for the betterment of Delhi. As CM-designate, Atishi has officially staked her claim to lead the government by handing over the letter of support from AAP MLAs to Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena.