Mon Nov 18 07:15:38 UTC 2024: **Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot Quits Aam Aadmi Party Amidst Internal Rift**
NEW DELHI – Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot has resigned from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), bringing to a head months of simmering internal tensions. The rift reportedly stemmed from the redistribution of portfolios following the arrest of former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia last March. Sisodia’s numerous portfolios, including key positions like health and education, were divided among other ministers, notably Saurabh Bhardwaj and Atishi.
A key turning point was the December transfer of the Law and Justice portfolio from Gahlot to Atishi, seen by Gahlot’s allies as a sign of diminishing trust from the party leadership. This tension culminated in a public display during Independence Day celebrations, where Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who was unavailable due to his own imprisonment at the time, delegated the flag-hoisting ceremony to Atishi. Lieutenant Governor V.K. Saxena ultimately assigned the task to Gahlot, further highlighting the internal power struggle.
In his resignation letter, Gahlot cited the AAP’s perceived failures regarding the Yamuna river cleaning project and criticisms surrounding the Chief Minister’s renovated residence, dubbed “Sheeshmahal” by the BJP, as reasons for his departure.
However, AAP leaders have countered Gahlot’s claims, suggesting his resignation is linked to ongoing investigations by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) and Income Tax Department. Senior AAP leader Sanjay Singh accused Gahlot of acting at the behest of the BJP, alleging that he was succumbing to pressure from investigative agencies. Chief Minister Kejriwal remained silent on the matter during a recent press conference. Other AAP leaders echoed Singh’s accusations, asserting that Gahlot could not withstand the pressure and chose to side with the BJP. The timing of Gahlot’s resignation, ahead of upcoming Delhi elections, has fueled speculation of a broader political strategy.
First Piper 