IBN7 managing editor Ashutosh leaves Network18

There was plenty of buzz on Twitter since last evening, that a senior journalist was set to join the Aam Aadmi Party as it heads into the Lok Sabha polls later this year. It is now confirmed that IBN7 managing editor Ashutosh has resigned from his post and could join the party.

The journalist hasn't confirmed joining the party yet. Image courtesy: CNN-IBN

While the senior journalist has confirmed his resignation, he has not yet confirmed that he will be joining the political party and a formal announcement is expected soon.

Network18 confirmed that Ashutosh was leaving IBN7 and would be replaced by Vinay Tewari, Managing Director, CNN-IBN.

"Ashutosh has played a key role in IBN7's emergence as one of the most credible brands in Hindi news. We thank him for his immense contribution and commitment to the Network. Vinay has led CNN-IBN admirably and in this expanded mandate, we're confident that he will not only take IBN7 to new heights editorially but also strengthen our general news network further," B Sai Kumar, Group CEO of Network 18, said in the statement.

In the statement, Ashutosh thanked all his colleagues for their support.

"Building IBN7 into what it is today has been one of the most satisfying experiences of my professional journey. I would like to thank all my colleagues for their support and look forward to newer challenges," he said.

Commenting on the development, Rajdeep Sardesai, Editor-In-Chief of IBN News Network said, "Ashu has been a driving force behind IBN7 and his passion and leadership has been instrumental in making it into a fearless and independent voice in Hindi journalism. We thank him for his stellar effort and wish him the very best."

"Vinay has been an integral part of the general news network from the very beginning and I'm confident that he will bring his unique perspective and rich news experience to bear at IBN7 and the network," he said.

Vinay Tewari, who is replacing him, said,"IBN7 today stands for the best in hard-hitting and inclusive journalism and it's a privilege for me to lead it further. I look forward to working closely with the talented and passionate team to ensure we honor the trust of our viewers in IBN7 and ensure that both CNN-IBN and IBN7 benefit and capitalize from the general news network in equal measure."

Other former journalists in the Aam Aadmi Party include Manish Sisodia, who is presently Education Minister of Delhi and Shazia Ilmi. Many other former professionals like Meera Sanyal, Gopinath and V Balakrishnan are among those who have joined the party ahead of the national elections to be held later this year.