Mon Nov 18 10:56:53 UTC 2024: ## Former AAP Minister Kailash Gahlot Joins BJP, Citing Disillusionment with Party

**New Delhi:** Former Delhi minister Kailash Gahlot joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday, marking a significant shift in Delhi’s political landscape. Gahlot, who resigned from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and his ministerial post on Sunday, was welcomed into the BJP fold at the party headquarters by senior leaders including Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar and Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva.

Gahlot’s decision, he stated, stemmed from a growing disillusionment with the AAP’s deviation from its original ideals and a perceived inability to effectively work with the central government for Delhi’s development. He expressed admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the BJP’s ideology, citing a desire to contribute to Delhi’s progress under their leadership. He also refuted suggestions that his move was influenced by pressure from investigative agencies.

In a statement, Gahlot highlighted the AAP’s failure to fulfill promises, using the example of the Yamuna river’s continued pollution despite pledges to clean it. He also criticized the alleged rise of a “VIP culture” within the AAP, questioning the party’s commitment to its original principles.

The AAP responded to Gahlot’s defection with a statement from former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who said Gahlot was free to join any party he chose. However, BJP leaders hailed Gahlot’s decision as a “turning point” in Delhi politics, suggesting it signifies a decline in AAP’s support and an opportunity for the BJP to strengthen its position in the capital. Union Minister Vijayant Panda described the move as a crucial step towards the BJP forming a government in Delhi.

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