A day after resigning from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), former Delhi Commission for Women chief Swati Maliwal launched a scathing attack on party convenor Arvind Kejriwal, accusing him of leading the party away from its founding principles.
Maliwal's Allegations
In a series of posts on social media, Maliwal stated that the AAP had strayed far from its original ideals of honesty, transparency, and grassroots democracy. She claimed that the party had become a one-person show, with Kejriwal concentrating all power in his hands.
Loss of Internal Democracy
Maliwal alleged that internal democracy within the party had been stifled, with dissenting voices being silenced. She pointed to the lack of consultation with party members on key decisions and the sidelining of senior leaders who questioned the leadership.
Response from AAP
The AAP, however, dismissed Maliwal's accusations, stating that her departure was a result of personal ambitions not being fulfilled. Party spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar said that Maliwal's claims were baseless and that the party remained committed to its core values.
Maliwal's Tenure
Swati Maliwal served as the chairperson of the Delhi Commission for Women from 2015 until her resignation. She was known for her work on women's safety issues, but also faced controversies, including a high-profile case involving a leaked video.
Political Implications
Maliwal's exit and subsequent criticism come at a time when the AAP is gearing up for the upcoming Delhi assembly elections. Political analysts suggest that while her departure may not significantly impact the party's voter base, it could affect its image among women and urban middle-class supporters who value internal democracy.
The former AAP leader concluded her statement by expressing hope that the party would return to its roots and rectify its course before it is too late.
