Kailash Gahlot Quits AAP Amid Tussle Over Position and Power; Wasn’t a Spontaneous Decision
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in the National Capital Region has undergone another leadership shake-up with the sudden resignation of prominent leader Kailash Gahlot. Insiders reveal that Gahlot’s exit was not on a whim but a culmination of several factors, including pressure from central agencies and disappointment over being sidelines for more powerful roles.
Last Sunday,AAP stated that Gahlot resigned due to “pressure from central agencies”, joining BJP. In reality, sources close to the party indicate that the former cabinet minister had an expectation of greater power after top leadership vacated jail and the AAP underwent a party shake-up. His expectations aren’t deemed as reasonable given his age in comparison with some more established leaders within the alliance.
For several months now, the AAP core brass has largely avoided major events held in ministries controlled by Gahlot - even when the senior officials were imprisoned, however. In fact, the former deputy chief minister made a point to attend key events featuring incumbent leader Arvind Kejriwal to showcase the party's strength. In contrast, some notable functions such as the laying of a foundation stone for an electric bus depot didn’t see AAP representatives present, and during the grand inaugural ceremony, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena was seen taking center stage instead.
Gahlot's growing disappointment turned more apparent after AAP installed newcomer Atishi by snubbing senior Gahlot or former cabinet minister Manish Sisodia for flag-hoisting festivities on August 15 at state-level Independence Day event. Moreover, the L-G nominated Gahlot to perform national flag hoisting instead of new Chief Minister Atishi who had been handed off such an honor just weeks prior, despite Kejriwal’s jail imprisonment during celebrations.
News18 sources suggest Gahlot felt disheartened about his diminished stature once Kejriwal chose this 2020 MLA for top cabinet post. Many of the party members expressed discontent over selecting newcomer Atishi over well-respected veteran leader like Gahlot who had been senior-most leader in the party after several key AAP leaders were arrested one-after-another.
According to sources, former Delhi home minister was initially expecting significant powers and more substantial portfolios following top AAP leaders' arrests and resignation. Unfortunately for him, much-needed resources were not redirected towards his portfolio. Gahlot eventually found himself with significantly reduced authority over law, justice & legislative affairs as well as finances after three prominent ministries under him fell under different hands.
Despite the news of AAP’s senior leader leaving amidst dissatisfaction and discontent among party colleagues, neither top brass nor Atishi made any immediate comments, sparking continued discussions on whether or not Gahlot shall return to contest upcoming state elections with BJP where he might possibly find a new path ahead.