Kailash Gahlot Resigns from AAP
New Delhi: Kailash Gahlot, a prominent member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and a key minister in the Delhi government, has resigned from the party, marking a significant political shift. He is the third minister to quit the AAP cabinet since 2022, following Rajendra Pal Gautam and Raj Kumar Anand. Gahlot’s departure has raised questions about internal dynamics within the party as it prepares for the upcoming assembly elections in February 2025.
In his resignation letter shared on X (formerly Twitter), Gahlot criticized the AAP’s political trajectory. He alleged that the party’s focus on its political agenda had overshadowed its commitment to the public, leaving many promises unfulfilled. He cited the Yamuna River’s worsening pollution levels as an example, stating, “We had promised to transform it into a clean river, but now it is more polluted than ever.”
He also mentioned recent controversies, such as the ‘Sheeshmahal’ allegations, which he said had tarnished the party’s image. Gahlot pointed out that constant conflicts between the Delhi government and the central government hinder meaningful progress for the city.
A Man of Few Words, Yet Key to AAP’s Policies
Known for his reserved demeanor, Gahlot often kept a low profile in the Cabinet, avoiding public spats that embroiled many of his colleagues. However, his contributions to Delhi’s governance were notable. Gahlot, who held portfolios such as Transport, Home, and Administrative Reforms, was instrumental in several key initiatives.
He spearheaded the modernization of the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) fleet, overseeing the introduction of new buses, including eco-friendly electric vehicles. Additionally, he led the rollout of the Delhi government’s Doorstep Delivery of Public Services scheme, a groundbreaking initiative to make government services more accessible to residents.
Despite his quiet presence, Gahlot’s career faced challenges. Investigations by the Income Tax Department, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), and the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) shadowed his tenure. In 2018, the IT Department raided 16 properties linked to Gahlot, accusing him of tax evasion amounting to ₹120 crore, a claim he denied.
Political Tensions and Friction-Free Ties with the L-G
Gahlot’s resignation comes amid longstanding tensions between the AAP and Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor (L-G). Interestingly, Gahlot maintained a relatively smooth relationship with the L-G, unlike other AAP leaders who frequently clashed with the central representative.
This dynamic was highlighted during the Independence Day controversy, when L-G Vinay Kumar Saxena nominated Gahlot, rather than an AAP nominee, to hoist the Tricolour. This decision fueled speculation about Gahlot’s standing within the party, especially since he did not join the chorus of disapproval against the treatment AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal faced in Tihar Jail.
A Lawyer-Turned-Politician
Hailing from Najafgarh, Gahlot joined AAP ahead of the 2015 assembly elections, emerging as the party’s Jat face in Delhi. He represented Najafgarh as an MLA twice, winning in 2015 by 1,555 votes and in 2020 by 6,231 votes.
His resignation comes at a time when the AAP is regrouping for the 2025 assembly elections. AAP sources suggest Gahlot might not have been renominated as the candidate for Najafgarh due to the narrow margins of his victories.
Resignation Amid Political Challenges
Gahlot’s resignation letter underscored a growing dissatisfaction with AAP’s internal priorities. The timing is significant, as the party is under pressure to consolidate its position ahead of elections. Opposition parties have attributed his resignation to ongoing investigations by the ED and CBI, while AAP leaders have labeled it a result of BJP’s “misuse” of central agencies.
Durgesh Pathak, an AAP MLA, accused the BJP of orchestrating Gahlot’s departure to weaken the AAP ahead of the polls. Meanwhile, former BJP MLA Anil Jha’s recent defection to AAP adds another layer to Delhi’s evolving political landscape.
Conclusion
Kailash Gahlot’s exit signals a critical juncture for the AAP as it navigates controversies, political rivalries, and internal challenges. His departure underscores broader issues within the party and its governance approach, raising questions about its readiness for future electoral battles. As AAP restructures and reevaluates its strategies, the impact of Gahlot’s resignation on Delhi’s political scene remains to be seen.