With Arvind Kejriwal announcing his resignation as Delhi’s Chief Minister amid allegations of corruption, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) faces the task of selecting a temporary leader to steer the capital until the elections. While Kejriwal has made it clear that he plans to return to office after clearing his name through a public mandate, the spotlight is now on who will take the reins in the interim.
The upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, slated for early 2024, are crucial for AAP, and the interim Chief Minister will need to be someone who not only has wide acceptability within the party but can effectively articulate AAP’s position on key issues.
Top Contenders for Interim Delhi Chief Minister
Atishi
A prominent figure in the AAP government, Atishi is a frontrunner for the role. Currently serving as Delhi’s Minister of Education and Public Works, Atishi has played a vital role in overhauling Delhi’s education system. She holds a degree from Oxford University and is a Rhodes Scholar, which adds to her credentials as a capable administrator and thought leader.
After Manish Sisodia was arrested in the liquor policy case, Atishi stepped up, representing the party and maintaining its position in difficult times. Her efforts in transforming Delhi’s schools have been widely recognized, and as the MLA from Kalkaji, she has the experience needed to take on a larger leadership role. Atishi was even handpicked by Kejriwal to hoist the tricolour at the Delhi government's Independence Day event this year, reflecting the party’s confidence in her.
Saurabh Bharadwaj
Saurabh Bharadwaj, the MLA from Greater Kailash, is another strong candidate for the Chief Minister’s seat. Currently holding the portfolios for vigilance and health, Bharadwaj has been a key member of the AAP government since Kejriwal's earlier 49-day tenure. With a background in software engineering, Bharadwaj has worked both as a minister and as a national spokesperson for the party.
He has demonstrated his capability by taking charge of critical issues when top leaders like Kejriwal and Sisodia were unavailable, and his consistent public presence has made him a trusted face within the party. His experience in managing health and vigilance in Delhi during challenging times will be crucial if he is chosen for the Chief Minister’s role.
Raghav Chadha
At 35 years old, Raghav Chadha represents the younger, dynamic leadership within AAP. A Rajya Sabha MP and a key figure in AAP’s national executive, Chadha played an important role in the party’s victory in Punjab’s 2022 state elections. His background as a chartered accountant and his ability to connect with younger voters make him a unique candidate.
Chadha’s rise in the party since its inception and his articulate communication on national platforms make him a strong contender for the top job. His leadership in Parliament and his understanding of both policy and public sentiment position him well for the interim Chief Minister’s post, should AAP decide to put forward a younger leader.
Kailash Gahlot
Among AAP’s senior leadership is Kailash Gahlot, the MLA from Najafgarh, who currently manages the portfolios of transport, finance, and home affairs. Gahlot, a lawyer by profession, has been a consistent figure in the Delhi government since 2015. His experience in both the Delhi High Court and Supreme Court adds a legal dimension to his candidacy, giving him an edge in dealing with governance and legal challenges.
As a trusted senior leader, Gahlot has overseen critical sectors like transport and finance, areas that are vital to the functioning of Delhi’s infrastructure. His administrative experience and long-standing association with AAP make him a strong contender to step in as the interim leader.
Sanjay Singh
Sanjay Singh, a Rajya Sabha MP since 2018 and a founding member of AAP, is another name being considered for the Chief Minister’s role. Known for his fiery speeches and his vocal stance on various issues in Parliament, Singh is a familiar face in both media interactions and party strategies.
Though Singh was implicated in the liquor policy case, like many other senior AAP leaders, he remains one of the party’s most trusted figures. With a background in mining engineering, Singh’s leadership experience and deep involvement in the party’s national affairs make him a possible choice for the interim role.
What Lies Ahead for AAP and Delhi
As the AAP leadership deliberates on who will fill the interim Chief Minister’s seat, the choice will be crucial in determining the party’s strategy for the upcoming elections. Each of these leaders brings their own strengths, from Atishi’s education reforms to Chadha’s youthful energy, and the final decision will reflect the direction AAP wishes to take as it seeks to retain its stronghold in Delhi.
While the next few months will be filled with political maneuvering and campaign strategy, the interim Chief Minister will need to handle governance while preparing for the February elections. Whether AAP chooses an experienced senior leader or a rising young face, the transition will be closely watched by the people of Delhi, as well as political observers across the country.
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