In a rare moment of praise for the Delhi government, Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena lauded Chief Minister Atishi, describing her as “a thousand times better” than her predecessor Arvind Kejriwal. Saxena made these remarks during the 7th convocation ceremony at the Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women on Friday.
Saxena expressed his satisfaction at seeing a woman in the position of Delhi’s Chief Minister, highlighting her positive impact on the administration. “I am happy today that Delhi’s CM is a woman, and I can confidently say that she is a thousand times better than her predecessor,” Saxena said during his address.
The Lieutenant Governor also shared words of inspiration with the graduating students, emphasizing their responsibilities as they embark on their professional journeys. “As you move ahead, you have four guiding stars. The first is your responsibility towards yourself, the second is your responsibility towards your parents and family, the third responsibility is towards society, and finally, your duty to contribute to nation-building,” Saxena told the students.
He added a special message for the female graduates, urging them to “prove yourself as women who have broken the glass ceiling of gender and stand on par with others in all fields.”
Atishi took office as Delhi’s Chief Minister in September after Kejriwal resigned, citing the need to clear his name from corruption allegations and seek a “certificate of honesty” from the public. Her appointment marked a significant change in Delhi’s political landscape.
The relationship between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government and the Lieutenant Governor has been strained for some time. Issues surrounding governance, bureaucratic control, and the handling of city services have led to multiple confrontations. Recently, several AAP leaders were detained during a protest outside the LG’s residence over the termination of bus marshals.
Earlier this year, the Delhi government also accused the LG of delaying the hiring process in city hospitals and dispensaries, citing a lack of action on the part of Saxena.
Despite these ongoing tensions, Saxena’s public praise of Atishi highlights a shift in tone, raising questions about the future of Delhi’s governance under her leadership.
