Arvind Kejriwal has taken over as Delhi Chief Minister
Arvind Kejriwal, the new Chief Minister of Delhi, today reached out to Kiran Bedi and Ajay Maken, who were his rivals in the polls last week.
"I respect Kiran Bedi. Winning and losing is a part of life. Kiran Bedi is like my older sister," Mr Kejriwal said in his address after the oath ceremony at Ram Lila Maidan in Delhi. Loud cheers erupted the moment he mentioned his former associate-turned-critic.
"She has long experience in administration. We will seek her advice and work with her, we will work under her guidance," said the chief minister.
He made similar comments on Congress leader Ajay Maken, stating that his government would draw from the Congress leader's experience in governance.
"Our government will work with good people, regardless of their party affiliation" Mr Kejriwal said.
Ajay Maken reciprocated with a tweet: "Kejriwal has begun well on a positive note. Wish him all the best and all support to him in his efforts FOR Delhi!"
Kiran Bedi, who contested the election as the BJP's chief ministerial candidate, had been openly critical of Mr Kejriwal during her campaign, even calling him "toxic". Mr Kejriwal also remains blocked from Ms Bedi's twitter account.
Ms Bedi had tweeted earlier about the oath ceremony: "Today is a day of celebration & reflection. When both the processes are done with true responsibility & commitment,India is the real winner."