Gujarat AAP Farmer Wing Chief Raju Karpada Resigns from All Party Posts
In a significant political development, Raju Karpada, a senior leader of the Aam Aadmi Party in Gujarat and the head of its farmer wing, has resigned from all positions within the party. He submitted his resignation letter to AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday morning, citing personal reasons for his decision.
Background: Recent Bail Release and Legal Case
The resignation comes just 10 days after Karpada and six other AAP leaders were released from Rajkot Central Jail on bail. They had been implicated in a case related to violence during a farmer protest in Hadadad village, Botad district, in October 2025. A total of 85 individuals were booked on charges of rioting and attempted murder in connection with the incident.
Karpada, along with another AAP leader, Pravin Ram, had spent over 100 days in prison prior to their release. The protest was part of a larger movement against price-cutting practices affecting farmers, which culminated in a Kisan Mahapanchayat organized by AAP, drawing thousands of participants.
Resignation Details and Social Media Announcement
Karpada posted his resignation letter on Facebook, accompanied by a heartfelt message. In the post, he expressed surprise at his own decision, noting that he had dedicated immense time and effort to strengthening the party, often prioritizing it over his family. He apologized for any hurt caused and extended gratitude to the national and state leadership of AAP, as well as his colleagues and the farming community for their support.
The letter, issued from Surendranagar, stated that due to personal reasons, it had become impossible for him to continue fulfilling his party duties. This move has sparked discussions within political circles, given Karpada's prominent role in advocating for farmers' rights in Gujarat.
Reactions from AAP Leadership
AAP state chief Isudan Gadhvi responded to the resignation, acknowledging that he had not spoken directly to Karpada about the decision. In a statement, Gadhvi praised Karpada's contributions, highlighting his strong movements for farmers' justice, fair pricing, and opposition to alleged exploitation by the BJP.
Gadhvi also referenced the Haddad protest, where farmers faced a lathicharge by authorities, leading to false cases being filed against 85 individuals, including Karpada and Ram. He accused the BJP of attempting to weaken farmer movements and intimidate AAP leaders, alleging atrocities against party members even while in jail.
Despite Karpada's departure, Gadhvi emphasized that the trust of Gujarat's farmers, laborers, and working class in AAP remains intact. He reaffirmed the party's commitment to relentlessly working for farmers' rights and justice, underscoring their ongoing struggle against perceived injustices.
Implications and Future Outlook
This resignation marks a notable shift in AAP's farmer advocacy efforts in Gujarat, potentially impacting the party's grassroots support among agricultural communities. As the political landscape evolves, AAP continues to face challenges in maintaining its leadership and mobilizing farmers amid legal and political pressures.
The case and subsequent events highlight the ongoing tensions between political parties and farmer groups in the region, with implications for future protests and electoral dynamics. Observers will be watching closely to see how AAP adapts its strategies in the wake of this development.
