Raghav Chadha has strongly responded to criticism from members of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), defending his performance in the Rajya Sabha and reaffirming his commitment to Punjab.
The response comes a day after internal party leaders questioned his role and accused him of failing to raise key issues concerning the state during his tenure as deputy leader in the Upper House.
Chadha Rebuts Allegations with Video Evidence
Taking to social media, Chadha shared a compilation video highlighting his speeches in Parliament. The clips show him addressing multiple Punjab-related concerns, including:
- Minimum Support Price (MSP) for farmers
- Demand for heritage city status for Anandpur Sahib
- Air pollution challenges
- Proposal for a corridor to Shri Nankana Sahib
In a pointed message to critics, Chadha wrote:
“Punjab isn’t a talking point for me. It is my home, my duty, my soil, my soul.”
He also added, “Picture abhi baaki hai,” signaling that more evidence of his work may follow.
AAP Leaders Raise Concerns Over ‘Inaction’
Senior AAP leaders from Punjab, including state ministers and party officials, had earlier expressed disappointment over what they described as Chadha’s “silence” on critical state matters.
They claimed that several pressing financial and policy issues were not adequately raised in Parliament, such as:
- ₹8,500 crore pending Rural Development Fund (RDF) dues
- Nearly ₹60,000 crore in GST-related losses
- Pending relief funds of ₹1,600 crore after floods
- Funding concerns under the National Health Mission
According to party leaders, addressing these concerns at the national level is essential for safeguarding Punjab’s interests.
Internal Rift Deepens Within AAP
The ongoing exchange highlights growing tensions within the AAP, particularly between its central leadership and Punjab unit. Chadha’s removal from his leadership role in the Rajya Sabha has further intensified the situation.
While party leaders emphasise accountability and alignment with party priorities, Chadha has framed the criticism as an attempt to undermine his voice.
Political Implications Ahead
With elections and policy debates gaining momentum, the disagreement within AAP could have broader political implications. The situation reflects the challenges political parties face in balancing internal discipline with individual representation.
As the debate continues, Chadha’s public defence and the party’s response will likely shape the narrative around leadership, accountability, and representation in Indian politics.
