AAP Top Brass Snub Kailash Gahlot Over Atishi’s Rise: Why The Senior Leader Decided To Quit
Kailash Gahlot Quits AAP Amid Pressure From Central Agencies, Joins BJP
In a surprise move, senior Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kailash Gahlot quit the party on Sunday, citing pressure from central agencies. The 50-year-old Gahlot, who was an MLA and cabinet minister, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Gahlot's decision to leave AAP comes after a string of incidents that hinted at growing dissent within the party. With AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal behind bars, Gahlot became one of the most powerful leaders in the party. However, sources close to him claim that he was expecting more power and prestige.
Atishi's Rise Prompts AAP Brass Snub
Gahlot's fall from grace may be attributed to his relationship with Atishi, who rose to prominence after Kejriwal made her the chief minister of Delhi following her election as MLA in 2020. This decision angered many within the party, including Gahlot.
Despite being a senior leader in terms of age, sources said that Gahlot was left out of key cabinet meetings and was stripped of some critical ministries, including law, justice, and legislative affairs, which previously fell under his portfolio.
Gahlot's departure has raised eyebrows over Atishi's rapid rise to power. Many AAP leaders feel that newcomers like Atishi should not be given top posts without giving experienced leaders a chance.
A Quiet Leader Turned Frustrated
Formerly known for his behind-the-scenes approach and working relationship with officials, Gahlot was increasingly marginalized by the AAP brass. AAP leaders were vocal in their criticism of the Centre and LG on everyday issues but avoided Gahlot's aggressive style.
After being shunned from key events and being overlooked in Atishi's cabinet expansion earlier this year, sources revealed that Gahlot is no longer a part of key decision-making processes within the party.
The exit comes at a time when AAP officials are facing increasing pressure from central agencies, including allegations of tax evasion and a long-dragged liquor scam case. As a leader who has been under scanner since 2018, the question remains whether Gahlot's new venture will bring him security.
AAP in Denial; BJP Welcomed Him Open-Arms
When News18 approached AAP for comment on Gahlot's departure, they initially refused to deny or confirm the news. However, with more details surfacing as we speak regarding his reasons for leaving, it appears that the party hasn't had an opportunity to fully address their stance.
BJP has, on the other hand, publicly welcomed him. According to sources close to Gahlot and the AAP’s former leader Manish Sisodia, the move may signal a possible larger shift within the political landscape of Delhi.
As Gahlot now joins hands with the BJP at critical juncture for their party politics, experts suggest this event represents a dramatic escalation in rivalry between AAP and other rival parties. The stakes on what is to happen next could be quite high as various sides start looking outwards towards consolidating strength.
This particular story remains developing as of my knowledge cutoff time.