Atishi to Lead Delhi’s Independence Day Celebration Amid Political Tensions

Delhi’s Education Minister Atishi will hoist the national flag on Independence Day at Chhatrasal Stadium, as per the directive of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. This decision was confirmed by Environment Minister Gopal Rai, who has instructed the General Administration Department (GAD) to make necessary arrangements.

The announcement comes amidst controversy, with the Lieutenant Governor’s office denying any official communication from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) about the change. Traditionally, the Chief Minister addresses the Independence Day gathering, a role that Kejriwal has requested Atishi to fulfill in his stead.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) seized the opportunity to criticize Kejriwal, currently detained in Tihar Jail on corruption and money laundering charges linked to the Delhi excise policy scam. The BJP suggested that Kejriwal should step down and appoint Atishi as Chief Minister, asserting that only the Chief Minister is permitted to hoist the tricolor on Independence Day. Despite being granted interim bail by the Supreme Court in the ED case, Kejriwal remains in custody in a CBI case.