A political controversy arose as Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) replaced MP Raghav Chadha as the current Deputy Leader in the Upper House. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Congress criticized AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal for the decision, suggesting discord within the party. BJP MP Ramvir Singh Bidhuri condemned the move, urging Kejriwal to reconsider the decision.
AAP has reportedly requested the Rajya Sabha Secretariat not to allocate time to Chadha, who has been vocal on issues of public interest in recent months. Bidhuri expressed concern over the suppression of a senior leader’s voice, emphasizing the importance of freedom of speech. He lauded Chadha for his past contributions in both the Delhi Assembly and Rajya Sabha.
Punjab Congress President Amarinder Singh Raja Warring commented on the internal matter, hinting at tensions between Chadha and AAP. Warring predicted potential divergence between the two parties in the future. AAP MP Ashok Mittal, set to replace Chadha, thanked Kejriwal for the new role, emphasizing his commitment to upholding the party’s values.
Mittal dismissed speculations of Chadha’s discontent with AAP, highlighting the party’s democratic principles in assigning responsibilities. He clarified that leadership transitions are routine within a democratic party. Mittal also dispelled rumors of Chadha joining the BJP, emphasizing AAP’s commitment to democratic traditions.
