In a dramatic turn of events that has sent ripples through Gujarat politics, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Botad, Umesh Makwana, has resigned from all party posts, citing a betrayal of Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s principles within the party. Just hours later, AAP Gujarat President Isudan Gadhvi announced Makwana’s five-year suspension, accusing him of "anti-party and anti-Gujarat activities."

Makwana, a former BJP functionary who had switched loyalties to AAP at a time when the party had little to no presence in Gujarat, made the announcement via a public statement, signalling serious internal strife within the state unit.

“I worked in the BJP on different posts for 20 years. At the time when no one even recognised AAP in Gujarat, I left the ruling BJP to join Aam Aadmi Party,” he said.

“Today, in AAP, I feel we are deviating from the principles of Dr BR Ambedkar; this is why I have resigned from all posts of Aam Aadmi Party.”

Makwana, however, clarified that he hasn’t quit the party as a whole—yet.

“I continue to work as a party worker. I will go among the people of Botad. I will meet a few people to discuss whether or not to form a separate party,” he added, hinting at the possibility of launching his own political outfit.

AAP’s Gujarat leadership responded swiftly. Isudan Gadhvi posted on X: “Umesh Makwana has been suspended from the party for five years for engaging in anti-party and anti-Gujarat activities.”