The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Thursday wrote to the Rajya Sabha Secretariat recommending the removal of its MP Raghav Chadha from the post of Deputy Leader in the Upper House. The party has proposed MP Ashok Mittal as the new Deputy Leader in his place.
According to party sources, the decision comes amid growing distance between the leadership and Raghav Chadha over the past few months. Chadha has reportedly remained absent from several key party meetings and important political events, which is believed to have contributed to the leadership’s decision.
Sources within the party clarified that the move was not triggered by any specific anti-party activity or a single major incident. Instead, the leadership had been considering the change for some time and has now formally initiated the process.
The issue of Chadha’s absence became more noticeable during certain high-profile party events, including the show of strength organized after Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia received relief in the excise policy case. His absence at such crucial moments reportedly raised concerns within the party.
Political observers also point to earlier signals of distancing when Chadha’s name was missing from the party’s list of star campaigners for upcoming assembly elections. The omission was widely interpreted as an indication of shifting internal dynamics within AAP.
Sources further suggest that the party is not considering any suspension or disciplinary action against Chadha at this stage, as it does not want to create a situation that could generate political sympathy. He is expected to continue serving as a Rajya Sabha MP.
The development comes days after Chadha praised the “Udaan Yatri Cafe” at Mumbai airport on social media, highlighting affordable services such as tea available for ₹10. While the statement itself was unrelated to party matters, it drew public attention amid ongoing speculation about his role within the party.
The latest move is being seen in political circles as a sign of changing equations within AAP and a possible reshuffle in leadership roles in the Rajya Sabha.
