Speculation grows over AAP’s internal rift
Anand Singh
In a stunning political upset, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has lost the assembly elections, marking a significant blow to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Kejriwal, who once claimed that no force could defeat him in this lifetime, was unseated by Pravesh Sahib Singh Verma, son of veteran Delhi leader Sahib Singh Verma.
Kejriwal’s downfall has sent shockwaves through his party, with speculations of an imminent split growing stronger. AAP, which once rode the wave of anti-corruption sentiment, finds itself at a crossroads. Many political observers believe that Kejriwal’s overconfidence, strained relationships with key stakeholders and policy missteps contributed to his defeat.
The auto driver factor: A turning point
Prominent journalist Yashwant Singh, editor of Bhadaas, shared his insights before the election results, predicting a massive voter shift against AAP. His social media post highlighted the discontent among Delhi’s auto drivers, who once formed AAP’s core support base.
“I travelled across New and Old Delhi, speaking to auto drivers for 24 hours. A clear sentiment emerged—people are fed up with Kejriwal’s arrogance. Auto drivers, who played a crucial role in bringing him to power, now want him out. Many openly stated they would vote for BJP, not because they trust them completely, but to punish Kejriwal for his neglect,” he wrote.
An auto driver, Arvind Yadav, echoed this sentiment: “Kejriwal has done nothing for us. The pension that was given after 60 years has been stopped. We voted for him for 10 years, now we will remove him from power.”
Policy failures and public backlash
While AAP’s health and education initiatives gained widespread praise, its governance was tainted by corruption allegations. The liquor policy controversy became a major setback, with accusations of promoting alcoholism and harming families.
“Many of his own voters suffered because of the liquor policy. Families have been torn apart, health issues have surged and his core support base is disillusioned,” Singh added.
Kejriwal’s tenure was also marked by continuous clashes with the Lieutenant Governor, stalling key projects. Unlike Sheila Dikshit, who governed Delhi for 15 years with steady development, Kejriwal’s tenure was defined by conflict rather than progress.
The fall of AAP’s leadership
AAP’s troubles deepened with key leaders like Satyendra Jain and Manish Sisodia landing in jail, while Kejriwal himself faced legal battles. The BJP successfully capitalized on the Delhi liquor scam, amplifying the issue to turn public opinion against AAP.
With all top AAP leaders, including Kejriwal, suffering major defeats, the party seems to be at its weakest. Booth-level data suggests that AAP struggled even in its strongholds. Though the fight was not entirely one-sided, the margin of defeat was significant, indicating a loss of faith among voters.
Mass exodus from AAP?
Political analysts predict a wave of defections from AAP to BJP in the coming days. Many leaders were reportedly waiting for this day to switch allegiances.
In Punjab, where AAP holds power, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann faces a tough challenge in keeping the party intact. With Kejriwal’s defeat shaking the party’s foundation, the possibility of Punjab AAP crumbling under internal pressure remains high.
What’s next for Kejriwal?
With Kejriwal’s defeat, AAP’s future hangs in uncertainty. Will he attempt to rebuild, or will the party disintegrate under internal conflicts? The coming days will be crucial in determining whether AAP can recover or if this marks the end of its political journey.
One thing is certain—Delhi has spoken and its verdict is loud and clear.
