Senior AAP Leader Resigns in Goa After Electoral Setback
Amit Palekar, a senior leader of the Aam Aadmi Party, has resigned from his position in Goa following a disappointing electoral performance. His resignation comes after he was removed from the party's state leadership, highlighting internal conflicts within AAP. Palekar criticized the party's top leadership for limited communication and decision-making processes. Despite his resignation, he pledged to continue working for the people of Goa and expressed gratitude to his supporters. The AAP's recent performance in the district panchayat elections was notably poor, securing only one out of fifty seats contested, while the ruling BJP dominated the elections.
| Jan 5, 2026, 17:40 IST
Major Setback for AAP in Goa
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) faced a significant setback on Monday when senior leader Amit Palekar announced his resignation from the party. This development comes shortly after Palekar was removed from his position as the head of AAP's Goa unit, following the party's disappointing performance in the district panchayat elections.
In a letter addressed to AAP's national convenor Arvind Kejriwal, Palekar criticized the senior leadership, stating that when communication and consultation are limited, decisions are made solely by the top leadership.
Palekar expressed that such issues do not weaken individuals but rather put pressure on institutions. He remarked that for a movement that aimed to redefine democratic processes, these differences are quite disheartening. He emphasized that he did not enter politics for positions or titles, but joined AAP believing in its promise to create an "alternative political culture" based on transparency, internal democracy, and respect for grassroots voices.
He noted that the manner in which decisions are made and communicated is increasingly making it difficult to align with these ideals. Nevertheless, Palekar thanked AAP leadership for the opportunity that helped him learn during his journey. He stated, "I have always worked with utmost sincerity and dedication for the organization's interests, alongside dedicated workers who selflessly contributed their time, trust, and energy. I hold great respect for all of them. After much contemplation, I have made this decision, not out of anger or haste, but with self-respect and clarity. This decision has been made with consideration for my colleagues and, most importantly, the people of my Santa Cruz constituency."
Palekar also mentioned that he would continue to work for Goa and his constituents. He expressed gratitude to everyone who supported him during his journey. AAP's performance in the district panchayat elections held in December was notably poor, securing only one seat out of 50 contested. The party ran in 42 seats and supported an independent candidate. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 29 seats, while its ally, the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), secured three seats.