New Delhi, India – In the middle of April 2022, as spring transitioned into summer, tensions were high in India’s capital. Jahangirpuri, a neighborhood on the outskirts of Delhi, was on edge following a clash between Hindu and Muslim groups during a Hindu religious procession, where anti-Muslim slogans were raised. Shortly after, bulldozers arrived and demolished several structures near a local mosque as part of an anti-encroachment effort by the city’s civic body, then controlled by the Hindu majoritarian Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Despite a court order halting the demolitions, three top leaders of Delhi’s ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) blamed Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingya refugees for the violence, echoing the BJP’s stance. Atishi, a prominent figure within AAP, took the lead in addressing the situation. Known for her cotton sarees, short hair, and thick-rimmed glasses, Atishi had risen to prominence within the party.
On Tuesday, Atishi, 43, was named the chief minister-designate of Delhi, following Arvind Kejriwal’s resignation amidst corruption allegations. Atishi, who has not yet been sworn in, will be the third woman to lead Delhi, joining the ranks of Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit. Despite her rapid political ascent, Atishi’s background in social work and education has shaped her approach to governance. She played a key role in revitalizing Delhi’s public schools and implementing welfare programs, contributing to AAP’s popularity in the city. As she prepares to take on her new role, Atishi’s focus remains on improving public institutions and promoting social welfare.