Delhi Chief Minister Atishi on Saturday urged students to actively participate in politics, cautioning against leaving critical decisions to the "worst kind of people".
Speaking at the Founder's Day celebration of St. Stephen's College , Atishi recounted her time as a student there and how politics was once dismissed as a "dirty business" and an unlikely career choice.
She urged the youth to rethink their perception of politics, emphasizing that meaningful change is only possible through active engagement. “India is not destined to stay the same. It can change, and we are the ones who can bring that change. But for that, we must engage with politics and democracy.â€
The Delhi Chief Minister highlighted the transformative impact of the AAP government’s policies, including free bus rides empowering 11 lakh women daily, while reflecting on the struggles and sacrifices her team faced since 2015 in combating vested interests to bring change. During this, Right Reverend Dr. Paul Swarup, the Chairman of the College and the Bishop of Derry, Professor John Burgess, Principal of St. Stephen's College were also present.
Looking back at her time in St. Stephen’s, the Chief Minister reminisced about being part of the Social Service League, organizing blood donation camps, and holding evening classes for children of the college’s non-teaching staff. “This college instilled in us an ethos of service. Today, I urge all of you to carry that ethos forward. Yes, be successful in your careers, but remember that your actions shape the society and country you live in,†she said, according to a statement.
She explained that disengaging in politics leaves crucial decisions about education, healthcare, and safety in the hands of others, the statement said."When educated, well-meaning young people stay away from politics, we allow the most important decisions of our lives to be made by the wrong people," she asserted.
