Atishi to be `CM for 4 months,' keeps Kejriwal's chair by her side

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Atishi, who on Monday took charge as the eighth Chief Minister of Delhi, said after taking the oath of office, “I will work for four months as the chief minister of Delhi as Bharat did by keeping Lord Ram's khadaun (footwear) on the throne."

Ms Atishi made a grand gesture of reverence to the former chief minister as she took another chair placed beside the chair used by Arvind Kejriwal. She left Mr Kejriwal's chair vacant and vowed his return after four months after the public pronounced their verdict over his honesty in the Assembly polls, reports PTI.

She appealed to the residents of Delhi to vote for the AAP to prove their honesty in the upcoming Assembly elections scheduled for February next year. Referencing the Ramayana, she said: “Arvind Kejriwal has set an example of dignity in politics by stepping down. The BJP left no stone unturned to tarnish his image.”

She added: “Hope people will bring back Kejriwal in the February polls, his chair will remain in the CM's  office till then.”

Atishi retains all 13 portfolios 

The Delhi Assembly's next session is scheduled for September 26 and 27. The 43-year-old Delhi CM has retained the 13 portfolios she held in the Arvind Kejriwal government. These include education, revenue, finance, power, and Public Works Department (PWD).

Meanwhile, Saurabh Bharadwaj will hold eight departments after Ms Atishi. Mr Bharadwaj's portfolio's will include health, tourism, and arts and culture. Mukesh Ahlawat, who is a new entrant in the Cabinet, will be in charge of Labour, SC and ST Affaris, Employment, and Land and Building departments. 

(By arrangement with livemint.com)