AAP in Turmoil: Vadodara Unit Erupts as Ticket Row Triggers Resignations

Vadodara | Gujarat —  The Aam Aadmi Party has been plunged into a major internal crisis in Vadodara, with its first list of candidates for upcoming local body elections triggering widespread rebellion, resignations, and serious allegations of favouritism and money power.

Within hours of the list being released on March 24, the party’s Vadodara city president Ashok Ojha resigned, reportedly upset after his recommended candidates were ignored. His exit has further deepened the turmoil, exposing cracks within the party at a crucial time ahead of municipal, taluka, and panchayat elections.

The unrest spilled onto the streets as angry party workers staged protests outside the AAP office. In a symbolic act of dissent, several workers hung their party sashes outside the office and announced their resignation on the spot. “This list has not been prepared based on local inputs. It has been imposed from Delhi. The party is behaving like the B team of the BJP,” alleged one agitated worker.

The anger among grassroots leaders was palpable. Rajesh Mali, in-charge of Ward No. 13, expressed deep frustration. “People who joined the party just a month or two ago have been given tickets, while those of us who have worked for years have been ignored. If even one of these candidates manages to save their deposit, I will shave my head,” he said.

Echoing similar sentiments, Bhavikaben accused the leadership of sidelining committed workers. “Candidates have been selected arbitrarily. We have dedicated years to the party but have been marginalized. Now, we will continue to serve people, but as social workers, not as party representatives,” she said.

The controversy took a more serious turn with Jhanvi Gohil alleging financial irregularities in ticket distribution. “Everything is driven by money. Opinions were taken from us, but completely ignored. We have faced cases and protests for the party, yet we received no support. If this continues, who will stand with the party?” she questioned.

Attempts to reach Ashok Ojha for comment remained unsuccessful, adding to speculation and uncertainty within the party ranks.

With growing dissent, public protests, and high-profile resignations, the crisis has cast a shadow over AAP’s electoral prospects in Vadodara.