AAP Top Brass Snub Kailash Gahlot's Decision To Quit as Party Leader Wasn't on a Whim
In a shocking turn of events, Delhi Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA and cabinet minister Kailash Gahlot quit the party early Sunday, citing pressure from central agencies. However, according to sources close to the party, several incidents and decisions taken by AAP leadership in the last few months - particularly after the arrest of the top leadership - "forced him to quit".
Gahlot had been with the party since its inception, but his decision to leave was not sudden. Over the past few years, there have been reports of strained relationships between Gahlot and the AAP leadership, particularly Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal.
When the top three cabinet ministers - including Kejriwal - were arrested, Gahlot's status as a senior leader increased. However, instead of being given more power or position, he was passed over in favor of newcomer Atishi for key party posts, such as chief minister and various ministries.
Sources close to the party revealed that several AAP leaders were unhappy with this decision, citing concerns about "the new face" in the party leadership. They stated that Gahlot had consistently demonstrated his capabilities during his tenure as Delhi home minister and education minister but was ignored for top posts despite having more experience than Atishi.
In August, at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the multi-level electric bus depot in the city, Delhi L-G Veniak Saxena nominated Gahlot to hoist the national flag for independence day festivities, rather than Atishi. However, with Saxena holding significant power, this decision was seen as a compromise by AAP leadership who had also decided to promote Atishi as chief minister.
According to sources, in February 2023, Gahlot's eight ministries allocated to him came back under the control of other leaders when Sisodia resigned and Manish Sisodia took over. These were later given back to Gahlot; however, not enough power for his stature was provided as expected despite Kejriwal announcing Atishi as chief minister just a few months before this story.
Gahlot had remained silent on several high-profile issues, unlike some of the party's cabinet ministers who frequently engaged in public verbal clashes with officials. However, AAP leaders have cited his ability to work effectively during critical situations, especially where other senior AAP leaders struggled to function smoothly amidst power struggles and allegations.
While Gahlot has not announced what steps he intends to take next - and there is speculation that he might join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) - it remains clear that his departure from the party reflects ongoing tensions within the AAP's leadership.