Eight AAP MLAs resign ahead of Delhi elections.
Ahead of the Delhi elections, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) made a surprising move by dropping 20 incumbent MLAs from its list of candidates. This decision came as the party aimed to refresh its political base and present a new lineup to the electorate. In a strategic shift, AAP also fielded several turncoats, former members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress, in select constituencies. This move was seen as an attempt to capitalize on the experience and influence these leaders could bring from their previous affiliations. The decision stirred controversy within the party, with some critics questioning the alignment of former BJP and Congress members with AAP’s core principles.
In a significant development just days before the Delhi Assembly elections, eight Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) legislators, who were denied tickets to contest the upcoming polls, resigned from the party. This move has raised questions about the internal dynamics within AAP, as well as the broader political landscape in Delhi. The eight MLAs who resigned are Girish Soni from Madipur, Rohit Mehraulia from Trilokpura, Madan Lal from Kasturba Nagar, Rajesh Rishi from Janakpuri, Naresh Yadav from Mehrauli, Bhavna Gaur from Palam, Pawan Kumar Sharma from Adarsh Nagar, and BS Joon from Bijwasan.
These resignations come at a time when AAP is preparing to contest all 70 seats in the Delhi Legislative Assembly. The elections are scheduled for February 5, with the counting of votes set to take place on February 8. AAP’s leadership, led by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, is seeking to defend its dominance in the national capital, where the party has been in power for two consecutive terms. However, the departure of these eight legislators adds to the tension surrounding the party’s internal politics and its selection process for candidates.
Why Did the MLAs Resign?
The reasons for the resignations of the eight MLAs are varied, but a common thread seems to be dissatisfaction with the party’s decision-making process in selecting candidates for the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections. Girish Soni, the incumbent MLA from Madipur, who was dropped from the party’s list of candidates, took to social media to express his grievances. In an X (formerly Twitter) post, Soni described the activities within the party as a “subject of criticism” for a long time. He specifically raised concerns about the growing influence of the so-called “Sheeshmahal” within AAP, implying that internal power structures were becoming increasingly opaque and detached from the ground realities. The term “Sheeshmahal,” which translates to “Glass Palace,” is often used metaphorically to describe an elite, isolated leadership style, far removed from the concerns of the common people.
Soni’s resignation has sparked a debate within AAP, with critics questioning the party’s decision to drop experienced and long-serving legislators in favor of fresh faces. The discontent among the eight MLAs points to deeper issues within the party, especially regarding how candidates are chosen and how loyal members are treated. Many of the resigned MLAs had been part of the party since its inception, and their exit could have serious implications for AAP’s ability to retain its stronghold in the capital.
AAP’s Strategy for the 2025 Elections
The resignation of these eight MLAs is part of a larger trend within AAP, which has made significant changes to its candidate list for the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections. AAP decided to drop 20 incumbent MLAs from its roster, which has raised eyebrows and led to speculations about the party’s strategy moving forward. In place of these incumbents, AAP has fielded several political turncoats, particularly former members of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress. This decision marks a shift in AAP’s electoral strategy, as it attempts to attract seasoned politicians from rival parties to strengthen its chances in the upcoming polls.
The choice to bring in turncoats has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters of AAP argue that these new candidates bring valuable political experience and a deep understanding of the electoral process. Many of these turncoats are believed to have significant influence in their constituencies, and AAP hopes that they will be able to mobilize voters more effectively. On the other hand, critics argue that by fielding former BJP and Congress members, AAP is compromising its core principles. AAP was originally founded on the promise of clean, transparent politics, free from the influence of traditional parties, and some worry that the induction of turncoats could undermine this image.
However, AAP’s decision to field turncoats also reflects the party’s pragmatism in the face of intense political competition in Delhi. The party is aware that it faces a strong challenge from both the BJP and Congress, and it is looking for ways to counter the influence of these established parties. By recruiting candidates with strong political backgrounds and local support bases, AAP hopes to enhance its ability to challenge its rivals.
The Political Fallout
The departure of these eight AAP MLAs comes at a time when the party is already facing internal challenges. Many critics of AAP argue that the party’s leadership has become increasingly authoritarian, with decisions being made by a small group of leaders, including Arvind Kejriwal and his close associates. This centralization of power has alienated many party members, who feel that their voices are no longer heard in the decision-making process.
Furthermore, the growing discontent within AAP comes at a time when the party’s popularity in Delhi is being tested. While AAP has been successful in maintaining a strong grip on the capital for two terms, the upcoming election is expected to be more competitive. The BJP, which has a strong presence in Delhi, is determined to regain power, and Congress, although a marginal player, still has a presence in some constituencies. In this highly charged political atmosphere, any sign of internal instability within AAP could prove to be detrimental to its prospects.
The resignations of these eight MLAs could also have an impact on voter sentiment. While AAP supporters may rally behind the party and its candidates, the exit of familiar faces could create a sense of uncertainty among voters. Some constituents may feel betrayed by the party’s decision to drop their representatives, while others may see it as an opportunity for fresh leadership. The party will need to manage these dynamics carefully in the run-up to the elections.
Looking Ahead to the February 5 Elections
As the February 5 Delhi Assembly elections draw closer, the fate of these eight former AAP MLAs and the party’s overall strategy will become clearer. The resignation of these MLAs has undoubtedly created a political stir, but it remains to be seen whether this will have a significant impact on AAP’s chances in the polls. While the party has managed to maintain a stronghold in Delhi for the past decade, the upcoming elections will be a true test of its ability to retain power
Voters in Delhi will be watching closely to see how AAP responds to the challenges posed by the departure of these eight MLAs, as well as the party’s broader strategy for the future. Whether AAP can hold on to its dominance or whether new players will emerge to reshape the political landscape of Delhi remains to be seen.