Atishi Sworn in as Delhi’s Third Woman Chief Minister, Unveils New Cabinet
Atishi was sworn in as Delhi’s Chief Minister on Saturday, becoming only the third woman to hold the position in the capital, following Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit. She takes over the role from two-time Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who recently came out of Tihar jail on bail.
New Cabinet Lineup
Atishi’s new cabinet retains several veteran Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leaders, including Gopal Rai, Saurabh Bhardwaj, Kailash Gehlot, and Imran Hussain. Additionally, Mukesh Ahlawat, a first-time MLA from the Sultanpur Majra constituency, has been inducted into the cabinet.
Speaking after taking the oath, Ahlawat expressed his determination to meet the challenges of his new role. “The ministry I have received has always been challenging, but I will fulfill my responsibilities properly,” he said.
Challenges and Objectives for the New Government
Gopal Rai highlighted the cabinet's key objectives, stating, “Our new cabinet will continue the work started under Arvind Kejriwal’s leadership and take it to new heights by the time of the next elections. We will also focus on controlling winter pollution and other pending projects.”
List of Cabinet Members
Here is the full list of AAP leaders in Atishi’s cabinet:
- Gopal Rai
- Saurabh Bharadwaj
- Kailash Gahlot
- Imran Hussain
- Mukesh Ahlawat
Atishi’s Key Portfolios
Unlike her predecessor, Atishi is expected to hold several major portfolios in the Delhi government. A party leader mentioned that she would likely retain crucial sectors such as finance, education, public works department (PWD), and power. Atishi has been a prominent leader in AAP and has played a pivotal role in improving Delhi’s government schools during her tenure as an advisor to former Education Minister Manish Sisodia.
Also read: Atishi Takes Oath as Delhi's First Female Chief Minister Since Sheila Dikshit
Atishi's Focus on Governance
AAP’s top leadership has emphasized that Atishi’s primary focus will be governance, with a special attention on maintaining the progress made in education and infrastructure. The new chief minister is seen as a key figure in continuing AAP’s agenda as the party prepares for the upcoming elections.
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