Cracks in AAP

The resignation of senior leader Kailash Gahlot from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has shaken the party’s foundations in Delhi at a critical juncture as it comes a few months before the Assembly elections. Gahlot’s exit, citing unfulfilled promises like cleaning the Yamuna and controversies such as the costly renovation of the Chief Minister’s residence, underscores internal dissent and governance failures. This is the fourth high-profile departure in recent months as Gahlot joins a growing list of leaders disillusioned by AAP’s internal strife. The party’s inability to retain key figures such as Rajendra Pal Gautam and Raaj Kumar Anand raises serious questions about its leadership and direction. While AAP has accused the BJP of exploiting Central agencies like the Enforcement Directorate to intimidate its leaders, this narrative is insufficient to explain its crumbling internal cohesion. Infighting, portfolio reshuffles and accusations of sidelining experienced leaders in favour of newer faces like Atishi have further alienated senior members.

Adding to these woes is the party’s declining popularity in Punjab, the only other state where it holds power. AAP’s vote share in Punjab fell from 42% in the 2022 Assembly elections to 26% in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, reflecting widespread disillusionment. Key issues such as agrarian distress, unchecked drug trade and poor governance have tarnished its image. The perception of Delhi-based leaders dominating Punjab’s administration has exacerbated factionalism within the party.

AAP’s decline in both states raises pressing questions about its future. The party, once a symbol of grassroots activism and clean governance, seems adrift. Rebuilding trust requires a return to its founding ideals of transparency, accountability and public service. Without immediate course correction, AAP risks fading into political irrelevance, leaving behind a legacy of unfulfilled aspirations.