Mon Nov 18 14:38:30 UTC 2024: **Delhi Minister Defects to BJP, Citing AAP’s Shift Away from Public Service**
NEW DELHI — Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot, a prominent member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday. Gahlot, who held key portfolios including Home and Women and Child Development, resigned from AAP just the day before, denying his decision was influenced by investigations from the Enforcement Directorate or the Central Bureau of Investigation.
In his resignation letter to AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal, Gahlot criticized the party’s alleged prioritization of political ambitions over the needs of the people. He cited unmet promises, such as the failure to clean the Yamuna River, and controversies like the “Sheeshmahal” incident as evidence of AAP straying from its core principles. He described the shift as creating an atmosphere of doubt regarding AAP’s commitment to its “Aam Aadmi” (common man) identity.
Gahlot’s defection marks the third departure of a Kejriwal cabinet minister to the BJP in recent months. His move comes as AAP prepares for crucial Delhi Assembly elections scheduled for February 2024. While denying pressure from investigative agencies, Gahlot’s departure is a significant blow to AAP’s standing just months ahead of the elections.
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