Thu Nov 21 10:35:45 UTC 2024: ## Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot Quits AAP, Joins BJP

**New Delhi:** In a significant political development, Delhi’s Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot resigned from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Sunday and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday. Gahlot cited allegations of corruption within the AAP and controversies surrounding the Chief Minister’s residence, nicknamed “Sheesh Mahal,” as reasons for his departure.

However, sources within AAP suggest Gahlot’s growing friendship with Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor, V.K. Saxena, was the primary catalyst for his resignation. These sources claim Gahlot’s increasing alignment with the LG, particularly during clashes between the AAP government and the LG’s office, strained his relationship with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal. Kejriwal reportedly confronted Gahlot multiple times regarding his perceived closeness to Saxena.

The rift deepened after AAP leader Manish Sisodia’s arrest, leading Kejriwal to favor Atishi as his key advisor. This reportedly led to further friction between Kejriwal and Gahlot. The LG is believed to have played a significant role in Gahlot’s move to the BJP.

Gahlot’s entry into the BJP is considered a major boost for the party ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections next year. While his exact role within the BJP is yet to be defined, he is expected to spearhead a campaign against the AAP, leveraging his inside knowledge of the party’s workings.

Gahlot’s resignation has already triggered protests. Employees of the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC), particularly female employees, have begun protesting, alleging wage disparities and broken promises made during his tenure. Gahlot is anticipated to utilize these issues and other alleged shortcomings in AAP’s policies, such as the promised monthly financial assistance for women, to further undermine the AAP’s image.

The BJP is reportedly forming a team to contest the upcoming elections, headed by Gahlot and including other former AAP leaders who have switched allegiances. This team intends to expose internal issues within the AAP during the campaign.

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