'Epic Fall' For AAP; Why Kailash Gahlot Was Forced To Quit Party Amid Rising Tensions With Delhi Police Over Ex-Peers Jailed For Corruption

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA and cabinet minister Kailash Gahlot has reportedly parted ways with the party, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions regarding his decision to leave. The 50-year-old politician's sudden departure from AAP comes at a time when the party is under intense media scrutiny due to top leadership facing Jail terms for corruption charges.

Sources close to former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal have revealed that Kailash Gahlot's resignation was not taken lightly and was forced upon him after central agencies exerted pressure. According to insiders, Gahlot had expected a greater role in the party following the arrest of top AAP executives. Gahlot, who was the only senior leader other than the Chief Minister to have maximum ministries initially, saw an unexpected shift when two high-ranking ministers were arrested on corruption charges and subsequently took their resignations. One of those two ministers was Finance Minister Sushil Chaudhary.

In February 2023, Sushil Chaudhary went down in flames while Manish Sisodia who was also implicated was removed from his seat by the Lt. Governor on March 13th., with eight ministries passing to Kailash Gahlot. The sources explained that for several years, Atishi was overlooked despite being a well-established MLA but suddenly jumped to being Chief Minister. The reason behind this sharp climb is not very clear yet.

Gahlot was facing mounting pressure from various agencies. The income tax department conducted raids on his premises, questioning him over alleged tax evasion and other cases including the liquor scam.

AAP insiders have shared that Atishi has made several influential senior leaders and members feel marginalised by taking key leadership roles.