“Power should be distributed, not centralized,” Kang stated, noting that the recent exits would significantly impact AAP’s standing in Punjab’s political landscape.
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is facing a crisis in Punjab as Anandpur Sahib MP Malvinder Singh Kang raised serious concerns regarding the party’s internal coordination and decision-making processes.
In a recent interview with The Tribune, Kang emphasized that AAP needs to re-evaluate its strategy and operate like a democratic organization where participation is equal. He cautioned that if the leadership fails to maintain direct contact with its MPs and MLAs.
Kang pointed to the recent departure of Rajya Sabha members, specifically suggesting that figures like Sandeep Pathak might not have left, had the leadership remained in active communication with them. He further criticized the concentration of power, specifically naming Raghav Chadha, stating that excessive authority in a few hands led to misuse and internal frustration.
“Power should be distributed, not centralized,” Kang stated, noting that the recent exits would significantly impact AAP’s standing in Punjab’s political landscape.
Before joining AAP, Kang was associated with the BJP. His recent absence from party platforms and his public praise for Akali Dal leader Sukhbir Singh Badal have fueled intense speculation that he may be considering a return to his political roots or joining the Shiromani Akali Dal.
The party’s stability is further questioned as rumors circulate regarding Hoshiarpur MP Raj Kumar Chabbewal, who joined AAP from Congress just before the Lok Sabha elections. Analysts suggest that the “track record” of shifting loyalties in Punjab politics makes it difficult to ascertain the long-term commitment of several sitting members.
The “Sheesh Mahal” Controversy Returns
Adding to the party’s woes, former AAP leader Raghav Chadha, now with the BJP, has launched a scathing attack on Arvind Kejriwal. Chadha attributed the party’s losses in Delhi to the controversy surrounding the “Sheesh Mahal” Kejriwal’s official residence. He claimed that the recent construction of “Sheesh Mahal Part 2” at 95 Lodhi Estate continues to damage the party’s image of simplicity.
While AAP leaders like Atishi have dismissed the allegations and labeled the circulating photos as fake, the optics have provided ammunition to the opposition.
Social activist Anna Hazare also weighed in on the situation, suggesting that leaders only leave when they face significant difficulties or when a party loses its direction. For a party born out of the “India Against Corruption” movement in 2012, these internal fights and leaders leaving are a big setback.”
