Mon Nov 18 05:55:07 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Minister Kailash Gahlot Quits AAP, Citing Loss of Credibility
**New Delhi, Nov 19** – Delhi Transport Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Kailash Gahlot resigned from both his ministerial post and the party on Sunday, November 17th, months before the Delhi Assembly elections. Gahlot’s departure, the second resignation of a serving minister from the AAP government this year, follows months of speculation about a rift within the party.
His resignation is widely linked to the ongoing Delhi Liquor Policy case. Gahlot’s dissatisfaction reportedly began after the arrest of then-Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia in March 2023, and the subsequent redistribution of portfolios, which saw Atishi, now Chief Minister, take over key responsibilities, including those previously held by Gahlot. Sources suggest Gahlot felt sidelined by the promotion of Atishi, a first-time MLA. His perceived closeness to Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena further fueled speculation.
In his resignation letter, Gahlot cited the AAP’s perceived failure to address the Yamuna river cleaning project and criticism regarding the Chief Minister’s renovated residence as reasons for his departure. While the AAP alleges Gahlot’s resignation was orchestrated by the BJP, he is expected to join the BJP and contest the 2024 Delhi Assembly elections. The AAP has accused the BJP of using the Enforcement Directorate and Central Bureau of Investigation to pressure Gahlot into switching parties.
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