Kejriwal’s Resignation: A Risky Move or Strategic Masterstroke?

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 18th Sept. In a surprising political move, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has resigned from his post, appointing Atishi as his successor. This decision marks a significant shift in Delhi’s political landscape and raises questions about its potential outcomes, especially given the historical context of similar moves by other prominent Indian leaders.

Historically, transferring power to a trusted ally or family member has been a common practice among Indian politicians, with varying degrees of success. Laloo Prasad Yadav’s transfer of power to his wife, Rabri Devi, during his imprisonment for the fodder scam in the 1990s is often cited as a successful example. Yadav’s strategic move allowed him to maintain control over the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and its government remotely. Despite legal troubles, Yadav’s maneuver helped solidify his influence within the party and beyond.

In contrast, Nitish Kumar’s decision to appoint Jitan Ram Manjhi as Bihar’s Chief Minister in 2014, while he focused on the 2015 assembly elections, did not end as smoothly. Kumar faced significant backlash and challenges when he sought to reclaim the position from Manjhi, leading to a tumultuous period in Bihar politics. Similarly, Hemant Soren’s transfer of power to Chumpai Soren in Jharkhand, while he faced legal issues, resulted in political instability and a loss of support, further complicating his position.

Kejriwal’s resignation and appointment of Atishi could be seen as a test of political acumen. By choosing a trusted associate over his wife, Sunita Kejriwal, Arvind Kejriwal may be attempting to avoid the pitfalls experienced by Kumar and Soren. His decision raises several questions: Is Kejriwal’s move a well-thought-out strategy to ensure continuity and manage political narratives, or does it risk repeating the mistakes of his predecessors?

Kejriwal’s resignation comes amidst ongoing controversies, including his involvement in a liquor scam. While he claims that stepping down now is to prevent the BJP from using his situation against him, critics argue that the timing and rationale behind his resignation remain questionable. The Supreme Court’s restrictions on Kejriwal’s activities did not necessitate his resignation, adding another layer of complexity to his decision.

As Delhi prepares for this transition, political observers and analysts will closely watch whether Atishi can effectively manage the role and if Kejriwal’s gamble will prove to be a strategic success or a political blunder. The outcome will determine if this move enhances Kejriwal’s political legacy or mirrors the troubled experiences of Kumar and Soren.