Abdul Rehman, Seelampur MLA, Joins Congress, Claims 'AAP Overlooked Muslim Rights'
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New Delhi, Dec 12 (NationPress) Following his resignation from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) just hours before the upcoming Assembly elections in Delhi, Seelampur MLA Abdul Rehman has officially joined Congress on Tuesday, claiming that the party has neglected the rights of Muslims.
In his resignation letter, Rehman criticized AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal for sidestepping public issues for personal political advantage.
"Today, I resign from my primary membership of the Aam Aadmi Party. The party has become ensnared in power struggles and has disregarded the rights of Muslims. Arvind Kejriwal has persistently evaded addressing public concerns for his political benefit. I will continue to advocate for justice and rights," Rehman stated.
Despite leaving the party, his social media profile picture remains unchanged—a photo of Kejriwal with the caption, 'Modi's greatest fear Arvind Kejriwal'.
His exit marks a considerable blow for AAP, particularly in areas with a significant Muslim voter demographic, and may affect the party's chances in the elections.
In a post on X, the AAP MLA remarked, "I am stepping down from my role as President of the Minority Cell of Aam Aadmi Party. This decision comes amid escalating disagreements in my views. I trust that the party and my supporters will comprehend my choice."
Rehman's resignation followed the denial of a ticket for the Seelampur constituency in the forthcoming Assembly elections in Delhi.
AAP had unveiled its second batch of candidates on Monday, substituting Rehman with Zubair Ahmed as the Seelampur candidate.
Within a day, Rehman accused AAP of neglecting minority rights and publicly announced his departure from the party.
Reportedly, Rehman's discontent with the party had been simmering for a month, particularly after Zubair Ahmed's entry into AAP.
Speculation surrounding Rehman's transition from AAP to Congress intensified following this event.
On October 29, Rehman resigned from his leadership role in AAP's minority wing, citing ideological differences.
The Assembly elections in Delhi, encompassing all 70 constituencies, are set to occur on or before February 2025.
The last Assembly elections took place in February 2020, after which the Aam Aadmi Party established the state government, leading to Arvind Kejriwal assuming the role of Chief Minister for a third term.
The tenure of the 7th Delhi Assembly is expected to conclude on 15 February 2025.
