Why Did Atishi Only Touch Kejriwal’s Feet After Oath, Ignoring LG’s Presence?

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 21st Sept. Delhi’s new government on Saturday officially took charge, welcoming Atishi as the new Chief Minister. After her oath-taking ceremony, a photograph of Atishi touching the feet of former Chief Minister and party national convenor Arvind Kejriwal has sparked widespread discussion on social media. Notably, Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor, V.K. Saxena, who is older than both Atishi and Kejriwal, stands beside them in the image. However, Atishi chose only to pay her respects to Kejriwal.

This photograph has fueled speculation in political circles, with many interpreting it as a significant gesture from Atishi. Political analysts suggest that while Atishi has assumed the role of Chief Minister, real control over the government is likely to remain with Arvind Kejriwal. By seeking Kejriwal’s blessing during her swearing-in, Atishi has sent a clear message to her political opponents.

Atishi has previously stated that her primary objective is to ensure Arvind Kejriwal returns as Chief Minister. She has referred to Kejriwal as her “elder brother,” leading many to view her seeking his blessing after the ceremony as a natural gesture. Kejriwal had proposed Atishi’s name as his successor when he resigned, to which she expressed mixed emotions, saying, “I am happy yet sad that my elder brother is resigning as Chief Minister. Please do not crown me with a garland or congratulate me, as this is a moment of sorrow.”

The ongoing tension between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Lieutenant Governor has been a consistent theme in Delhi politics. Many are interpreting the recent photograph as part of this ongoing struggle. Analysts highlight that the relationship between the AAP government and the LG has been particularly strained, especially with V.K. Saxena, who has intensified conflicts surrounding investigations and arrests related to Delhi’s liquor policy under his orders. Therefore, Atishi’s gesture towards Kejriwal, while seemingly dismissive of the LG, comes as no surprise to those familiar with the political landscape.