The decision by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to replace Raghav Chadha as its deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha has triggered sharp reactions from Opposition parties, who claim the move reflects deeper internal tensions within the party.
Leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Indian National Congress questioned the decision, with BJP’s Ramvir Singh Bidhuri criticising the party leadership. He described Chadha as an effective speaker and suggested that restricting his role indicates a lack of internal democracy. Bidhuri also raised concerns about leadership decisions under Arvind Kejriwal, calling the development troubling.
Echoing similar concerns, Congress leader Mallu Ravi said such actions go against democratic values, adding that internal disagreements are natural but should not lead to such outcomes.
Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva went further, linking Chadha’s removal to an alleged rift with Kejriwal. He claimed the move suggested Chadha was distancing himself from the party leadership, drawing parallels with earlier differences involving Swati Maliwal.
Congress leader Amarinder Singh Raja Warring also pointed to Chadha’s recent absence from party activities, fuelling speculation about his future within AAP. He noted that public perception increasingly suggests a possible exit or sidelining.
AAP Terms It Routine Reorganisation
AAP, however, dismissed these claims, stating that the change is part of a regular organisational reshuffle. The party appointed Ashok Mittal as the new deputy leader in the Upper House.
Rajya Sabha leader Sanjay Singh confirmed that the decision had been formally communicated to the authorities. Mittal also downplayed speculation, emphasising that Chadha remains a senior leader and that such transitions are routine within the party.
He added that the reshuffle would help strengthen the party’s focus on key regional issues, particularly those related to Punjab, where AAP is preparing for upcoming Assembly elections.
Chadha Responds Indirectly
Following his replacement, Chadha initially refrained from issuing a formal statement but shared a video highlighting his contributions in Parliament. Later, he released a message questioning whether raising public issues in Parliament could be considered wrong.
In his remarks, Chadha suggested that his speaking opportunities in the Rajya Sabha had been restricted, asking why his voice was being curtailed. He also asserted that his silence should not be seen as a sign of defeat.
Political Undercurrents Ahead of Elections
While AAP maintains the move is strategic and organisational, political observers note that the timing is significant, with Punjab elections approaching. The party currently has a strong presence in the Rajya Sabha, with most of its MPs representing Punjab, and may be recalibrating its parliamentary strategy accordingly.
The development has added a fresh dimension to the political discourse, with Opposition parties continuing to question AAP’s internal functioning even as the party insists on unity and restructuring.
