AAP MP Raghav Chadha Faces Criticism After Removal as Deputy Leader

Internal Strife in AAP Following Leadership Change

New Delhi, April 3: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has launched a fierce critique against its Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha, accusing him of engaging in 'soft public relations' and neglecting significant political matters in Parliament. This comes just a day after he was dismissed from his role as the party's Deputy Leader in the Upper House.

On Friday, Saurabh Bharadwaj, the president of AAP in Delhi, claimed that Chadha had repeatedly deviated from the party's political stance and distanced himself from vital opposition initiatives.

“We are all followers of Arvind Kejriwal. The central government is not concerned with soft PR or discussing samosas at airport canteens when more pressing issues are at hand,” Bharadwaj stated in a video shared on social media.

He further accused Chadha of not participating in opposition walkouts in Parliament and failing to address issues pertinent to Punjab, his constituency.

“You did not join the Opposition during walkouts and avoided raising concerns about Punjab, your home state, while you were abroad when Arvind Kejriwal was arrested,” he remarked.

Anurag Dhanda, AAP's national media in-charge, also criticized Chadha, questioning his dedication to confronting the central government.

“In Parliament, we have limited speaking time, which should be used to advocate for the nation rather than trivial topics like cheaper samosas at airport canteens,” Dhanda noted, adding that Chadha had been reluctant to address significant issues in recent years.

He also claimed that Chadha did not sign a proposal against the Chief Election Commissioner and questioned whether someone who is intimidated by Narendra Modi can genuinely advocate for the country.

Chadha responded to his removal with defiance, asserting that he felt intentionally marginalized. He took to social media to express, “Silenced, not defeated,” indicating that while his voice may be suppressed, his determination remains intact.

In a video message, Chadha defended his record in Parliament, asserting that he consistently raises matters affecting the public.

“Whenever I have the opportunity to speak in Parliament, I address issues that concern the people… Is it a crime to discuss public issues?” he questioned.

He further alleged that the party had requested the Rajya Sabha Secretariat to limit his participation.

“AAP has stated that Raghav Chadha should not be allowed to speak. Why should anyone prevent me from addressing Parliament?” he asked.

Chadha listed various issues he has brought to light, including challenges faced by delivery workers, rising food prices at airports, food adulteration, toll fees, middle-class taxation, and telecom recharge practices.

“I have raised these concerns, and the common people have benefited… What harm does AAP incur because of this?” he questioned.

This controversy follows AAP's decision to appoint Ashok Mittal as the new Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha, succeeding Chadha. The party has officially notified the Secretariat of this change.

AAP currently holds 10 seats in the Rajya Sabha, with a notable representation from Punjab, the only state where it governs.