NEW DELHI: Union Minister of State for Railways Ravneet Singh Bittu launched a sharp critique of the Aam Aadmi Party following its move to remove Raghav Chadha as deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha, calling it a reflection of deepening internal discord. He also dismissed rumours suggesting Chadha might switch to the BJP.
Bittu alleged that Chadha’s importance within the party had diminished, claiming his earlier role in mobilising resources for Arvind Kejriwal was no longer relevant. He suggested the leadership had shifted priorities, hinting at a structural change in the party’s inner circle.
The development comes days after AAP formally approached the Rajya Sabha secretariat to revoke Chadha’s deputy leadership position and curtail his participation in parliamentary debates. The decision has triggered a visible rift within the party, with differences now playing out in the public domain.
Stepping up his attack, Bittu described AAP as a leadership-centric outfit where individuals are sidelined once their utility declines. He cautioned Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, suggesting he could face a similar situation if he diverges from the party’s central leadership.
The minister also criticised Chadha’s parliamentary approach, accusing him of focusing on less significant issues instead of addressing Punjab’s pressing concerns. He further alleged that the party often prioritises external narratives over regional interests.
Rift intensifies within party ranks
Tensions between Chadha and the AAP leadership had reportedly been building over several months, with the leader gradually losing prominence in organisational roles and campaign visibility. The situation escalated on April 2, when the party formally sought his removal from the deputy leader’s post in the Upper House.
The following day, Chadha responded with a video defending his parliamentary record, which drew sharp reactions from party leaders. Bhagwant Mann and others questioned his alignment with party positions, citing his absence from key political actions and decisions.
The exchange marked a rare public breakdown between Chadha and the leadership, with allegations ranging from lack of coordination to insufficient political aggression.
Chadha defends record, asserts commitment to Punjab
Amid mounting criticism, Chadha issued a detailed response, reaffirming his dedication to Punjab and rejecting the allegations against him. He stated that his parliamentary interventions have consistently focused on critical issues such as farmers’ welfare, financial dues, groundwater depletion and border security.
He maintained that he adhered to party directives, including participation in coordinated protests, and clarified that he had not been instructed to take part in certain actions cited by critics. Dismissing the charges as unfounded, Chadha said his approach prioritised substance over disruption.
The ongoing war of words has cast uncertainty over Chadha’s future within AAP, signalling a significant shift in the party’s internal dynamics and leadership equations.