AB News Desk, New Delhi, 17 November 2024: In a significant political development months before the Delhi Assembly elections, senior AAP leader and minister Kailash Gahlot has resigned, delivering a major blow to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Speculation about Gahlot’s departure had been circulating since the Lok Sabha elections, but his exit has now deepened the sense of uncertainty within the party.

Sources indicate that Gahlot, who held key portfolios like Transport, Women and Child Development, Home, Administrative Reforms, and IT, is poised to join the BJP and contest the elections from Najafgarh, his current constituency. His departure is viewed as a setback for AAP, particularly because of his influence over the Jaat voter base, which could impact the party’s election prospects and delay the rollout of significant welfare schemes.

Reasons Behind Resignation

Gahlot cited AAP’s prolonged conflict with the Centre, inadequate focus on public commitments, political controversies, and issues surrounding the renovation of the Chief Minister’s residence as reasons for his resignation. However, party insiders revealed long-standing dissatisfaction, particularly over being sidelined in favour of Atishi, a first-term MLA who was elevated to handle crucial portfolios like Law and Revenue.

“After Atishi was given these key responsibilities, Gahlot, an experienced and senior minister, felt relegated,” a party leader said.

Strain with Leadership

Reports suggest Gahlot’s relationship with Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena may have contributed to the rift. His growing proximity to the L-G, including joint appearances at several events, reportedly irked the AAP leadership. This was compounded when Saxena appointed Gahlot, not Atishi, to hoist the national flag at an Independence Day event, citing protocol.

Gahlot’s name also surfaced during investigations into the Delhi excise policy case, adding to his troubles within the party. Despite these challenges, he remained active in party events until recently, publicly expressing loyalty to Kejriwal.

Impact on AAP’s Election Strategy

Gahlot’s resignation has left AAP scrambling to address gaps in leadership and project execution. As the architect of key initiatives like the “Electric Vehicle Policy” and “Pink Pass” for free bus travel for women, Gahlot played a pivotal role in shaping AAP’s governance model. His departure is likely to disrupt flagship projects like the “Mahila Samman Rashi,” a welfare scheme central to AAP’s election campaign.

Born and raised in Delhi, Gahlot is among the few AAP leaders with deep local roots. A trained lawyer, he was instrumental in many of the party’s landmark achievements in public transport and women’s safety.

As Gahlot prepares to join the BJP, his resignation marks a turning point for AAP, forcing it to navigate electoral and governance challenges in the months ahead.