Ex-AAP Leader Prashant Bhushan critiques Delhi CM Atishi over 'Kejriwal's Slippers'

Atishi was sworn in as the eighth Chief Minister of Delhi, taking charge at the Delhi Secretariat on Monday. In a notable gesture, she chose to sit in a different chair, leaving the one previously occupied by Arvind Kejriwal vacant. This decision drew criticism from former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Prashant Bhushan, who sarcastically suggested on social media that Atishi might place Kejriwal’s slippers on the CM's chair, claiming they are running the government. 

Atishi expressed her commitment to her new role, drawing a parallel between her feelings and those of Bharat, who governed Ayodhya during Lord Ram’s exile. She stated, “I have taken charge as the chief minister of Delhi today and accepted this responsibility,” indicating her determination to lead the government for the next four months.

Criticism from BJP Leaders

The gesture of leaving Kejriwal's chair vacant did not sit well with Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva. He condemned Atishi’s actions as a “mockery of the Constitution,” questioning her decision to become Chief Minister if she did not intend to occupy the chair. “If she doesn’t occupy the chair, who will work for Delhi? Electricity bills are skyrocketing; who will pay for drinking water?” he asked, emphasizing the need for effective governance. 

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Sachdeva further accused AAP leaders of prioritizing Kejriwal’s image over their responsibilities. He asserted that they are attempting to portray Kejriwal as an idealist while depicting Atishi as helpless. “This is not a masterstroke; it is playing with the public,” he added, urging AAP to respect constitutional norms and the significance of the chief minister's position. The unfolding political drama highlights the tensions within Delhi’s political landscape as Atishi steps into her new role amid scrutiny and expectations.