After former MLA Nitin Tyagi accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of misleading voters with false promises, particularly regarding financial aid for women, the party dissolved its organisational units in the Laxmi Nagar assembly constituency. Tyagi, who previously represented the constituency, posted a video highlighting AAP’s alleged deception, which led to the unit’s dissolution. Similarly, AAP dissolved its Patel Nagar unit following MLA Raaj Kumar Anand’s departure from the party in April, citing disrespect towards the Dalit community. The decision to dissolve these units comes amidst AAP’s active participation in the ongoing Lok Sabha campaign.
Tyagi’s video raised questions about AAP’s electoral promises, particularly its pledge to provide Rs 1,000 per month to women. This controversy added to the party’s internal strife, exacerbated by Tyagi’s disagreements with AAP leadership over the past year. Tyagi, who won the Laxmi Nagar constituency in 2015, faced defeat at the hands of the BJP in the 2020 polls. His vocal criticism of the party’s policies further strained his relationship with AAP.
In addition to the dissolution of the Laxmi Nagar and Patel Nagar units, AAP’s organisational restructuring reflects growing tensions within the party. Raaj Kumar Anand’s departure from AAP, alleging discrimination against the Dalit community, underscored internal dissent. With AAP deeply involved in the Lok Sabha campaign, the timing of these developments is crucial. Party chief Arvind Kejriwal’s current interim bail status likely prompted the leadership to address internal issues promptly.
Swati Maliwal was reportedly assaulted at Arvind Kejriwal’s residence on May 13, allegedly by Kejriwal’s PA, Bibhav Kumar. AAP MP Sanjay Singh confirmed the incident, stating that Kejriwal knew it. However, Kejriwal has not stated the matter yet, and no action has been taken against Kumar. This silence contrasts with Kejriwal’s vocal stance on women’s issues during a recent roadshow in Kurukshetra, where he criticised BJP’s Brij Bhushan. The lack of response from Kejriwal could alienate female voters and affect AAP’s electoral prospects. Despite Singh’s assurances of action, the absence of concrete steps against the accused raises concerns within the party. Maliwal’s ordeal further complicates matters for AAP.
The timing of these events is critical, with AAP intensifying its election campaign following Kejriwal’s release on interim bail. The decision to dissolve the two units was reportedly long overdue, and with Kejriwal’s return to the forefront, party leaders felt compelled to address the internal strife.
