# Indian political party shifts and defections

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/indian-political-party-shifts-and-defections
> Updated: 2026-10-03T07:36:41.000Z. Sources: 25. Developments: 2.

Political shifts are occurring in India involving the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the Indian National Congress. Priyanka Kakkar, a former AAP national spokesperson and senior advocate, has officially joined the Congress party alongside former Uttar Pradesh MLA Shyam Sundar Sharma and journalist Rajat Rakesh Tandon.

During her transition, Kakkar criticized the AAP leadership, alleging that the party has abandoned its original promises by using luxury perks such as private helicopters and planes. She noted that while the party initially promised leaders would not use official bungalows or cars, they have since transitioned to more luxurious accommodations and transport. She also expressed dissatisfaction with recent leadership appointments, alleging that individuals lacking grassroots experience are being granted high-ranking positions in states such as Punjab. Kakkar stated she could no longer ‘defend the indefensible’ regarding these changes.

Kakkar expressed support for Rahul Gandhi, describing him as an “authentic leader” who speaks with truth and resilience. She stated that the Congress party is the only entity capable of returning Delhi to a progressive state. Additionally, Kakkar raised concerns regarding the integrity of votes and the conduct of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, voicing support for Gandhi’s campaign regarding these voting rights concerns.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-03: Priyanka Kakkar leaves AAP to join Congress

Former AAP national spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar has joined the Congress party, citing a departure from the party's original principles and praising Rahul Gandhi's leadership.

8 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/priyanka-kakkar-leaves-aap-to-join-congress

### 2026-10-01: West Bengal politics: Suvendu Adhikari probes injury claims as Priyanka Kakkar joins Congress

West Bengal CM Suvendu Adhikari has ordered a probe into Mamata Banerjee’s 2021 injury claims, while former AAP spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar has joined the Congress party.

17 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/adhir-ranjan-chowdhury-urges-mamata-banerjee-to-merge-tmc-with-congress

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Cite as: Indian political party shifts and defections. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/indian-political-party-shifts-and-defections