Fri, 20 September 2024 03:36:22am
Delhi is set for a significant shift in leadership as Atishi is poised to become the new Chief Minister following Arvind Kejriwal's resignation. But there's more to her rise than just political maneuvering. Atishi’s journey from a name inspired by Marx and Lenin to her new role reveals intriguing aspects of her personal and political life. Dive into the story behind her name change and what it means for Delhi's future.
Delhi’s political landscape is undergoing a transformative shift with Atishi stepping in as the new Chief Minister, following the resignation of Arvind Kejriwal. This change marks a strategic move by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to showcase a female leader at the helm, echoing the past choices of the BJP and Congress with leaders like Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit.
Atishi’s appointment is not just a political play; it’s also a move to strengthen the party's appeal among women voters. Kejriwal's strategy of appointing a woman leader is seen as a masterstroke to consolidate female support ahead of upcoming elections. Moreover, Atishi's commitment to women's issues was evident when she proposed a monthly allowance of ₹1,000 for women in Delhi, a promise that may gain momentum with her new role.
The story of Atishi’s name is equally fascinating. Initially, she was known as Atishi Marleena, a surname derived from Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin, reflecting her father’s admiration for these revolutionary figures. However, ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Atishi removed the surname to avoid political controversy. Opponents had labeled her as a Christian, despite her Punjabi Rajput heritage. This change was made to prevent any potential biases and to align better with the public's expectations.
Atishi is not new to Delhi’s political scene. Representing the Kalkaji constituency, she has been a prominent leader within the AAP, serving on the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) and handling multiple portfolios including Education, Public Works, Culture, and Tourism. Her educational background is impressive, with a degree from Oxford University, and she previously worked as an advisor to former Education Minister Manish Sisodia.
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