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Anti-Graft Champion Sworn In As Delhi Leader


Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal talks on phone as he assumes office of the Chief Minister of Delhi, New Delhi, Dec. 28, 2013.
Aam Aadmi Party leader Arvind Kejriwal talks on phone as he assumes office of the Chief Minister of Delhi, New Delhi, Dec. 28, 2013.
An anti-corruption champion is the new chief minister of India's capital region.

Arvind Kejriwal was sworn into office Saturday in a New Delhi park in front of thousands of supporters.

Kejriwal, who arrived for the ceremony on the city's subway, is the leader of a new political party, Aam Aadmi, or Common Man.

His decision to use public transportation to the swearing-in supports his campaign promise to end the culture of privilege surrounding New Delhi's politicians.

The French news agency reports neither Kejriwal nor his ministers will occupy the sprawling bungalows surrounded by lush lawns built by India's former British colonial rulers. The agency says Kejriwal will continue to live in his flat in a Delhi suburb.

The Common Man party's symbol is a broom -- intended to emphasize its commitment to sweeping away the culture of bribery and corruption that critics say has become endemic in Indian politics and in daily life.

Common Man won 28 of Delhi's 70 assembly seats in elections held earlier this month. Kejriwal will govern with support from the Congress party.
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