AAP Leader Kailash Gahlot Quits Party Amid Pressure From Agencies, Leaves Door Open for BJP

New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and former cabinet minister Kailash Gahlot has announced his departure from the party, stating that he was "forced to quit" due to increasing pressure from central agencies. Gahlot's decision comes ahead of the AAP's state-level Independence Day event where Atishi made history by hoisting the national flag as Delhi Chief Minister.

Sources close to the party revealed that Gahlot had grown increasingly frustrated with the AAP leadership, particularly after being passed over for the top spot despite being the senior-most leader in terms of age. The development was seen as a major blow to the AAP's high command, which has been facing criticism from many quarters for its handling of power struggles.

Gahlot, who served as Delhi's home minister and law minister, had played an instrumental role in the party's rise to power but had kept a low profile due to his reluctance to take part in public feuds. However, despite being at the receiving end of criticisms from the AAP leaders, he remained silent, sticking to his work.

His departure is also seen as a strategic move by Gahlot ahead of General Elections 2024 and 2025 when his party, the AAP, will be contesting many crucial seats on its own. As the central leadership faces an onslaught, some senior leaders are now looking towards either joining the opposition or breaking away from Congress.