Congress denies claims of Ajay Maken's resignation as party's Delhi Chief

Since the reports of resignation came months before crucial Lok Sabha elections, the same was likely to come as a blow for opposition Congress who have already begun their preparations for the polls.

Ajay Maken file image/ PTI

New Delhi: Hours after sudden reports of Delhi Congress Chief Ajay Maken's resignation over health issues came to light, senior party leaders on Tuesday denied the claims.  Reacting to reports of Maken’s resignation, the party's Delhi in-charge PC Chacko told media, “The fact is that he has some health problem and he has gone for a check-up. Nothing beyond that, he will be back next week." Chacko further added that Maken has been worried over not being able to give time to the party. "Probably he is little worried that he cannot devote his full time or travel the way he wants. That problem he shared with me in past. However, he is doing fine and Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee (DPCC) is also doing well. On his return from his medical check-up, we will discuss the working arrangement and all other things. He has not resigned,” he said. Since the resignation came months before crucial Lok Sabha elections, the same was likely to come as a blow for opposition Congress who have already begun their preparations for the polls. The rumours were also likely to pave the way for the alliance between the Aam Aadmi Party and Congress, as Maken; who was against the ally is no more at the authoritative position and the same would reduce the chance of BJP coming to power if the two parties come together. Maken, has been a two-time Member of Parliament, three-time Member of Legislative Assembly of Delhi. At the National level, Maken was the youngest Union Cabinet Minister from the Congress Party for Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation between 2012–13, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Sports and Youth Affairs between 2011–12, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs between 2009-2011, Union Minister of State for Urban Development between 2006-2007.