Kailash Gahlot Switches Sides: Ex-AAP Minister Joins BJP Ahead of Key Elections

Kailash Gahlot, the former Transport Minister of Delhi and a senior leader of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), switched allegiance to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) this morning, marking a significant political shift.

Gahlot, who had been a part of AAP since its inception during the Anna Hazare-led anti-corruption movement, made his announcement in the presence of Union Ministers ML Khattar and Harsh Malhotra. Mr. Khattar hailed Gahlot’s joining as a “turning point,” particularly with the upcoming elections in February.

A Difficult Decision for Gahlot

In his first comments after joining the BJP, Gahlot emphasized that his decision was not taken lightly. He clarified that his transition to the BJP was not the result of any external pressure, particularly from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or the Enforcement Directorate (ED).

“Some may think this is an overnight decision… or due to pressure. But I want to tell them I haven’t ever taken any decision due to pressure,” Gahlot told reporters.

He strongly rejected speculation that federal agencies had influenced his decision, pointing out that since his time in AAP, both as an MLA and Minister, he had never acted under any such pressure. Gahlot also called out his former party for straying from its founding principles.

He accused AAP of prioritizing “political ambitions,” referencing the speculation around Arvind Kejriwal’s potential prime ministerial aspirations. This, he claimed, had overshadowed the party’s commitment to the people of Delhi.

Allegations and Criticism of AAP

Gahlot’s remarks also targeted the narrative that suggested his shift was prompted by pressure from federal agencies. He dismissed these claims and instead blamed the “dwindling credibility” of AAP for his resignation. He said that AAP had compromised its values and had failed to live up to its original vision.

Gahlot’s comments align with ongoing criticism from opposition parties, which have claimed that the BJP uses agencies like the CBI and ED to target political rivals, especially ahead of elections.

Despite these allegations, the BJP has consistently defended the CBI and ED as independent bodies, asserting that they operate without political interference. Gahlot’s departure from AAP further fuels the broader political discourse on whether such agencies are used to destabilize opposition parties during election periods.

Kejriwal’s Silence and Gahlot’s Resignation

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has remained largely silent on Gahlot’s resignation, opting not to address the matter during a public event on Sunday. When questioned about Gahlot, Kejriwal passed the microphone to senior leader Durgesh Pathak.

This silence, according to some sources, further signified the deterioration of their relationship. Meanwhile, some of Gahlot’s former colleagues were more candid, suggesting that he had been unable to withstand the pressure and had decided to “go with the flow.”

Gahlot’s departure from AAP was marked by his removal as the Law Minister in December of the previous year. The sacking occurred amidst a cabinet reshuffle following the resignation of Manish Sisodia. This reshuffling and the subsequent political infighting were seen as indicative of growing tensions within the party.

Political Rift and Independence Day Controversy

One of the most public displays of the rift between Gahlot and AAP leadership came during the run-up to the Independence Day celebrations. With Kejriwal in jail at the time, the responsibility of hoisting the national flag was delegated to Atishi, signaling her increasing prominence in the party.

However, Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena intervened and handed the task to Gahlot, who complied without addressing the issue directly with either Kejriwal or Atishi. This episode was a pivotal moment in Gahlot’s disillusionment with AAP.

Kailash Gahlot’s Political Career

Kailash Gahlot, a lawyer by profession, had been representing the Nazafgarh Assembly seat since 2015. His long tenure in the AAP and his proximity to Kejriwal had made him one of the key members of the party. However, recent events and internal party conflicts led to his decision to leave AAP and join the BJP.

His move comes just months before the Assembly elections, which are expected to see intense competition between AAP and BJP. Gahlot’s switch is likely to add fuel to the already high-stakes election battle in Delhi.