Puppet CM or Power Play? BJP Slams AAP's Atishi Appointment, Claims Kejriwal Still in Control

The BJP's Delhi unit has accused the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of appointing a "puppet" as the new Chief Minister, asserting that real control remains with party chief Arvind Kejriwal.

BJP Criticizes AAP Leadership Transition

The BJP's Delhi unit has accused the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of appointing a "puppet" as the new Chief Minister, asserting that real control remains with party chief Arvind Kejriwal. The comments came after Finance Minister Atishi met with the Lieutenant-Governor to stake her claim for forming the government, following Kejriwal's resignation.

Delhi BJP's Response

Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva stated, "The Supreme Court’s [bail] order against Mr. Kejriwal has left him powerless. Now, they have placed someone who will act as a puppet."

New Delhi MP Bansuri Swaraj echoed this sentiment, saying, "Atishi may be the face, but Kejriwal will hold the real power."

Allegations of Ministerial Failures

BJP leaders criticized Atishi's performance in her ministerial roles, particularly in Finance, Water, and the Public Works Department (PWD). MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat highlighted water shortages in Delhi under Atishi's tenure as Water Minister, while Mr. Sachdeva accused her of failing to manage the PWD and Education portfolios effectively.

BJP Calls for Early Elections

The BJP questioned AAP’s reluctance to dissolve the Legislative Assembly and call for early elections, despite Kejriwal suggesting a state poll in November. Sachdeva said, "AAP knows they cannot win again, but BJP is ready for polls at any time."

Bansuri Swaraj urged Delhiites to vote for a "double-engine government" to ensure prosperity for the Capital.

Future of AAP Leadership

A BJP source suggested that AAP may need to find a new Chief Ministerial candidate for the next term due to the legal cases against Kejriwal. "Atishi is a temporary solution, but AAP will need a new face for the upcoming elections," the source claimed.