Gopal Rai Assumes Role of Delhi's Environment Minister Amid Leadership Changes, Atishi Becomes Chief Minister

Gopal Rai has taken charge as Delhi's new Environment Minister, vowing to continue initiatives led by Arvind Kejriwal. Atishi has been sworn in as the new Chief Minister. Kejriwal stepped down amidst corruption allegations but expressed intentions to return if he wins the next election in February 2025.

Aam Aadmi Party leader Gopal Rai on Monday assumed office as the environment minister in the Delhi government, pledging to continue the work under former CM Arvind Kejriwal's leadership.

"My main duty is to carry forward the work done under the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal. Controlling pollution during winter is a significant challenge, but we have a Winter Action Plan prepared in consultations with experts and concerned departments," Rai told ANI.

He revealed plans for a meeting with the Chief Secretary to discuss the plan's implementation, set for release on September 25.

Rai now oversees three departments: development, general administration, and environment, forest, and wildlife. Meanwhile, Atishi took office as Delhi Chief Minister on Monday, having taken the oath on September 22 following her nomination by AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal earlier this week.

In a symbolic gesture, Atishi placed an empty chair beside her CM seat in honor of Kejriwal, asserting that she will serve temporarily in his stead and expressing confidence in his return post-February elections.

"For two years, BJP has tried to tarnish Kejriwal's image. He was incarcerated for six months, and the court acknowledged the malicious intent behind his arrest," she stated.

At 43, Atishi becomes Delhi's third woman Chief Minister, following Sushma Swaraj and Sheila Dikshit. Following his release on bail in the excise policy case, Kejriwal resigned, declaring that he stepped down to avoid engaging in corruption and greed, committing instead to a return if given a fresh mandate by Delhi's citizens in the 2025 elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)