AAP Crisis: Why Kailash Gahlot Quit the Party - Inside Story Behind the Former CM's Decision to Join BJP

The emergence of Atishi as the new face of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has created a stir in the party top brass. However, sources close to former Chief Minister Kailash Gahlot reveal that he took drastic decision after feeling sidelined by AAP leadership.

Gahlot, 50, was an expected candidate for the post of CM but was eventually surpassed by Atishi due to her massive popularity in the polls. The AAP's decision to give the top spot to a newcomer instead of someone with experience has left many party leaders unhappy.

"Kailash was expecting more power and position after the top leadership took a hit and a reshuffle occurred," said sources, adding that senior ministers had been given major portfolios earlier but later had their ministries taken back. "He should have been given more respect due to his age and experience," they claimed.

In recent times, Gahlot's absence from high-profile ministry events was felt when AAP CM Arvind Kejriwal was in jail. Even Delhi Chief Minister Atishi walked out of several major events where Gahlot could have been present to show strength.

The former minister had maintained a low profile throughout the election season but his frustration was palpable as reports began surfacing that AAP leaders were unhappy over his increasing stature, sources claimed. "Several times Gailth failed to get support from top brass," they added.

However, what remains ambiguous is how much extent Kailash's decision has an impact on his relationship with Atishi who would be next in the line as CM but the party officials' attitude towards him has put him at odds.