Swati Maliwal’s Allegations Against Arvind Kejriwal: From Torn Pants to Rs 100-Crore House Claims and AAP Exit

Swati Maliwal, chairperson of the Delhi Commission for Women, announced her resignation from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on April 8, 2025, citing the party’s abandonment of its founding principles under Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

In a statement shared with multiple news outlets, Maliwal said she could no longer associate with a party that had deviated from its original anti-corruption agenda. “AAP is no longer the same party,” she stated, adding that “no one can work with Kejriwal” in its current form. Her remarks followed a series of public criticisms directed at the chief minister, including a reference to his lifestyle as contrasting with the party’s early ethos of simplicity.

Maliwal specifically referenced Kejriwal’s residence, noting that he had moved from wearing torn pants to living in a government-accommodated house valued at over Rs 100 crore. She said this shift symbolized a broader departure from the values that had initially drawn her and others to the party. “Wore torn pants earlier, built Rs 100-crore house as CM,” she said, framing the change as emblematic of a leadership that had lost touch with its roots.

Her decision to quit the party came after she accused the AAP leadership of tolerating corruption, which she said had turn into a central reason for her departure. Maliwal stated that graft and unethical conduct within the party’s ranks had gone unchecked, undermining its credibility. She emphasized that her exit was not personal but a response to systemic issues she could no longer ignore.

The AAP has not issued an official response to Maliwal’s resignation or her specific allegations regarding corruption and lifestyle changes among its leadership. Internal party sources, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed receipt of her resignation letter but declined to elaborate on any internal proceedings or potential disciplinary actions.

Maliwal remains in her position as chairperson of the Delhi Commission for Women, a constitutional body appointed by the Delhi government. Her continued tenure in the role, despite her separation from the ruling party, has raised questions about the institutional independence of the commission. No official statement has been issued by the commission or the Delhi government regarding whether her AAP resignation affects her official duties.

As of now, Maliwal has not indicated plans to join another political party or contest future elections independently. Her next public appearance is scheduled for April 15, 2025, at a public hearing on women’s safety in northwest Delhi, organized by her office. No further comments on her political future have been made available.