AAP Leader Kailash Gahlot Leaves Party After Feeling Sidelineed
In a shocking turn of events, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former Delhi home minister Kailash Gahlot announced his resignation from the party on Sunday.
According to sources close to the party, Gahlot's decision to quit was not taken lightly. The 50-year-old politician was expected to receive a significant position and power after the arrest of top AAP leadership and a reshuffle within the party.
However, with new chief minister Atishi at the helm, Gahlot felt marginalized and overlooked for important roles in the cabinet. Instead of promoting himself or senior ministers, Atishi was given multiple portfolios, including those previously held by Gahlot's friend and ally, Captain Amarchand Ranawat.
Sources claim that several AAP leaders were unhappy with Atishi being chosen as chief minister and preferred a more experienced candidate. Gahlot, in particular, had expected more from the party leadership after years of serving the Delhi government.
AAP insiders revealed that Gahlot was not given his due share of power and influence, despite being one of the senior-most leaders in terms of age after the top three cabinet ministers were arrested and resigned. His ministries, including law, justice, and legislative affairs and revenue, were even taken away from him.
In a move to boost Atishi's image, Gahlot was initially not given certain key ministries on August 15 Independence Day celebrations. However, it was L-G VK Saxena, with the power to make decisions, who nominated Gahlot for flag-hoisting despite Kejriwal's absence.
On June 6, AAP leadership also snubbed Gahlot, citing a reason that could be interpreted as a plot against him - in order not to create further divisions. However, when it comes to internal party issues or issues with officials within the party, everyone had the same approach when they wanted someone out of the party.
It's now uncertain where Gahlot will join his next destination once he leaves AAP. Sources say that even during last summer months when he received pressure from central agencies, he never decided on leaving party in advance. With growing dissent amongAAP leaders and members over Atishi being Chief Minister , it will be a wait-and-see how long Gahlot stays silent on this matter.