Raghav Chadha breaks silence after AAP removes him as deputy leader in Rajya Sabha

No mention of removal in public response

Chadha responded with a video posted on X, notably avoiding any reference to his removal or possible tensions with the party leadership.

The video features a compilation of clips from his recent speeches in Parliament, highlighting issues concerning everyday citizens and the broader economy.

Issues highlighted by Chadha

In the video, Chadha is seen raising several public-interest concerns, including:

• Mobile data validity rules, questioning 28-day recharge cycles
• Gig workers’ rights, focusing on wages and working conditions in quick-commerce platforms
• Broader economic and civic issues affecting urban populations
• Formal Removal and Replacement

Earlier in the day, the Aam Aadmi Party formally informed the Rajya Sabha Secretariat that Chadha should no longer be allotted speaking time as deputy leader.

The party has appointed Ashok Mittal, a Rajya Sabha MP from Punjab and chancellor of Lovely Professional University, as his replacement.

Sanjay Singh continues as the party’s leader in the House.

AAP currently holds 10 seats in the 245-member Rajya Sabha, making it the fourth-largest party after the BJP, Congress, and Trinamool Congress.

From inner circle to sudden demotion

Chadha, 37, has been associated with AAP since its inception in 2012 and was long seen as part of Kejriwal’s inner circle.

• He joined the party during the India Against Corruption movement phase
• Drafted the Delhi Lokpal Bill
• Became one of AAP’s most visible spokespersons
• Appointed national treasurer at just 26
• Won the Rajinder Nagar seat in the 2020 Delhi Assembly elections
• Entered the Rajya Sabha in 2022

His removal from a key parliamentary role marks a significant shift in his standing within the party.

Speculation over internal rift

While the Aam Aadmi Party has not officially explained the decision, speculation had been building for months.

Chadha’s absence from key party activities and his silence on developments involving leaders like Manish Sisodia had raised questions about his position.

Despite this, he has remained active in Parliament, raising issues such as:

• High food prices at airports
• Traffic congestion in cities
• Gig workers’ welfare
• Party’s Response

Responding to his appointment, Ashok Mittal said the party gives leaders opportunities to grow: “Our party is democratic... first ND Gupta, then Chadha ji, and now me.”