Aam Aadmi Party Cabinet Minister Kailash Gahlot Quits After Feeling Shut Out of Power: AAP Leadership Under Scrutiny Over Handling of Senior Leader's Career

New Delhi, November 18, 2024 - In a shocking move, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) cabinet minister and senior leader Kailash Gahlot has submitted his resignation from the party, citing lack of power and recognition despite being a key figure. Sources close to the party revealed that Gahlot, who was the age-most leader after the party's top brass were arrested one by one in March-March 2023, was expected to take charge but was instead given just law, justice & legislative affairs, revenue ministries which he did not get over a month ago.

The reason behind his sudden decision is attributed to AAP leadership's apparent failure to promote senior leaders and giving enough power to newcomers, sources claim that the decision to give top spot to Atishi, a first-time MLA elected only in 2020 sparked anger among those who had more experience.

The development comes as a significant blow to AAP leadership which was under fire for several issues including arrests of the party top brass, handling of senior leaders and how the power is being distributed within the organization. After Kejriwal joined arrest group & Gahlot’s seniority over Atishi gets called to question, an anonymous source said that there's a certain system in AAP which allows only for few leaders to rise,

"The decision made by AAP leadership was unfair and created dissatisfaction among senior leaders who were not given the chance to shine. Many senior leaders like Kailash Gahlot, who have extensive experience and skills, feel marginalized," the source claimed.

Gahlot has been a member of AAP since its inception in 2012 under then-chief minister Sheila Dikshit's leadership. Throughout his tenure, he held various positions, including cabinet minister for law & justice, urban development, commerce and many others with the party.