Atishi Merlena quits Delhi CM post after AAP's disappointing election result

Delhi: Atishi Marlena, who assumed the role of Delhi's Chief Minister on September 21, 2024, following Arvind Kejriwal's resignation, has submitted her resignation after the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) defeat in the 2025 Delhi Legislative Assembly elections. The elections, held on February 5, 2025, resulted in a significant victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which secured 48 out of 70 seats, marking their return to power in Delhi after 32 years.

Aam Aadmi Party's

The AAP, which had governed Delhi for the past decade, managed to win only 22 seats, with several prominent leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal, losing their constituencies. Atishi, representing the Kalkaji constituency, retained her seat by defeating BJP's Ramesh Bidhuri. She had taken over as Chief Minister after Kejriwal resigned in September 2024, following his arrest in connection with the Delhi excise policy case. Upon her appointment, Atishi emphasized that she would serve as a caretaker, expressing confidence that Kejriwal would return to the position after the elections. 

Election Results

The recent election results, however, did not favor the AAP, leading to Atishi's resignation. The BJP's victory is attributed to its campaign focusing on issues such as corruption allegations against the AAP, pollution, and water shortages in the capital. The party's manifesto included promises like the Mahila Samridhi Yojana, offering ₹2,500 per month to women, and increased pensions for senior citizens and widowsAtishi's tenure as Chief Minister lasted until February 9, 2025, when she stepped down following the electoral defeat. The BJP is now set to form the new government in Delhi, with the next Chief Minister yet to be announced.