Former Delhi Minister Parts Ways with AAP Amid Controversy
Amid ongoing alliance discussions in Haryana, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) faced a major political setback in Delhi as Rajendra Pal Gautam, a two-time MLA from Seemapuri and former Delhi government minister, joined the Congress. Gautam, who previously held key positions like SC-ST, Social Welfare, and Women and Child Development, made the move on Friday, September 6, delivering a significant blow to AAP’s standing in the capital.
Controversy and Exit from the party
The unravelling of Gautam and AAP began when he made some controversial comments about Hindu gods and people got angry. As a result of the backlash, the Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal, removed him from his ministerial position. As dissatisfaction with the party grew, Gautam began to withdraw from the AAP. After being removed from his ministerial position, Rajkumar Anand became Gautam’s successor as minister, and now both have left the party. Also read: Amit Shah to Unveil BJP’s ‘Sankalp Patra’ for Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections
Seemapuri’s Historical Significance for Kejriwal
Seemapuri holds personal significance for Arvind Kejriwal, where he began his social activism by forming an NGO and leading protests, including a 15-day hunger strike on electricity issues. Gautam’s departure marks a key moment in the political landscape of the constituency. In addition to Gautam, two other leaders—MLA Kartar Singh Tanwar and Minister Rajkumar Anand—have also left the party, signaling a turbulent time for Kejriwal’s party in the national capital. Also read: Get Paid to Sleep: Wakefit’s Unique Internship Offers ₹1 Lakh Stipend for Nap Lovers! Know Here