**AAP Suspends Umesh Makwana Amid Internal Crisis in Gujarat**
In a significant development following the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) victory in the Visavadar by-election in Gujarat, Umesh Makwana has been suspended for five years, igniting a crisis within the party’s state unit. Earlier in the day, Makwana resigned from his roles as party whip and national-level positions, expressing concerns that AAP was straying from its foundational principles. However, he has not resigned from the party or his position as an MLA.
Gujarat AAP chief Isudan Gadhvi announced the suspension, alleging that Makwana was acting against the party’s interests. Gadhvi cited multiple complaints against Makwana, including allegations of corruption, and stated that he had received several warnings regarding his conduct. He further claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was influencing Makwana’s actions, accusing them of engaging in “dirty politics” to undermine AAP.
Gadhvi urged Makwana to resign from his MLA position and seek re-election, asserting that the electorate should determine his political future. In response, Makwana contested Gadhvi’s authority to suspend him, asserting that only AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal had the power to do so. He accused certain AAP leaders in Gujarat of being aligned with the BJP and pressuring him to resign. “They couldn’t force me out, so they suspended me. I will soon reveal the truth with proof. I have always spoken for the people,” he stated.
Despite his suspension, Makwana retains his status as an MLA. According to Assembly regulations, he will continue to hold his Botad seat unless he resigns or is disqualified.
**FAQ**
**Q: What led to Umesh Makwana’s suspension from AAP?**
A: Umesh Makwana was suspended for allegedly acting against the party’s interests and facing multiple complaints, including corruption allegations.