Gujarat MLA Resigns from AAP, Citing Caste Discrimination

Umesh Makwana's Resignation from AAP
Umesh Makwana, the Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) representing Botad in Gujarat, has stepped down from all positions within the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Thursday, alleging that the party engages in caste-based discrimination, as reported by a local news outlet.
Shortly after his resignation, the AAP announced a five-year suspension for Makwana, accusing him of participating in activities deemed 'anti-party' and 'anti-Gujarat.'
In a press conference following his resignation, Makwana, who belongs to the Koli community classified as Other Backward Class, mentioned that he would consult with his constituents before making a decision on whether to resign from his MLA position.
He criticized the AAP for failing to advocate for backward communities outside of election periods, stating, 'The party does not raise its voice for backward communities.' He further claimed that preference for key positions is often given to upper castes.
Makwana expressed concerns that the AAP is straying from the principles established by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and indicated that he might consider forming a separate political party after discussions with others.
He pointed to perceived bias in campaign support, particularly during recent bye-elections in Kadi and Visavadar, where he claimed that resources were disproportionately allocated to the Visavadar candidate, Gopal Italia, due to his Patidar background, while the Dalit candidate from Kadi, Jagdish Chavda, received little assistance.
Makwana clarified that his resignation was not influenced by Italia's potential appointment as the party's whip, a position he previously held.
In response, the AAP's Gujarat chief, Isudan Gadhvi, announced Makwana's suspension, citing multiple corruption complaints against him from constituents in Botad, and challenged him to resign as an MLA and run for the seat again.