Arvind Kejriwal’s Announcement and Its Implications: Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi's Chief Minister, has announced that he will resign within the next 24 hours and only return to office based on the outcome of corruption allegations against him. This decision raises the critical question of who will temporarily lead the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Delhi government. Manish Sisodia, the former Deputy Chief Minister, recently met Kejriwal, likely discussing the party's strategy and potential candidates for the top job.

Election Timing and Leadership Dynamics: The Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled for February 2025, but Kejriwal has called for an earlier election in November, to coincide with the Maharashtra polls. Sisodia has also stated his intention to return only after re-election, which implies that the immediate future of the Delhi Chief Minister's role will be filled by another leader from within the AAP. This temporary appointment will be crucial for maintaining the party's leadership and public image during this period.

Potential Contenders for the Chief Ministerial Role: Several prominent AAP leaders are being considered for the Chief Ministerial role. Atishi, currently serving as Delhi Minister for education and PWD, is a strong contender. An Oxford alumnus and Rhodes scholar, she has been instrumental in the party’s educational reforms and has shown leadership in recent times, including during Kejriwal's and Sisodia's legal troubles.

Other Key Candidates: Saurabh Bharadwaj, a three-time MLA and current Minister for vigilance and health, is another potential candidate. His experience as a former minister and national spokesperson of AAP makes him a viable choice. Raghav Chadha, a Rajya Sabha MP and prominent party face, is also in the running due to his role in AAP’s successes and his articulate representation of the party’s stance in Parliament.

Additional Contenders: Kailash Gahlot, holding significant portfolios like transport and finance, and Sanjay Singh, a veteran Rajya Sabha MP known for his strong media presence and role in the party’s national executive, are also possible candidates. Gahlot’s legal background and long-standing service in Delhi politics, combined with Singh’s experience and articulate defense of the party, add depth to the list of potential successors.