AAP Rajya Sabha MP Balbir Singh Seechewal reveals he was approached to join defecting MPs but chose to stay
April 26, 2026: Balbir Singh Seechewal, a prominent environmentalist and AAP Rajya Sabha member from Punjab, has revealed that he was approached to join the group of MPs who recently shifted allegiance to the BJP but declined the offer. He said Vikram Sahney had contacted him about forming an independent group, but he refused, stating he had “no desire” to be part of it. Seechewal also recalled an earlier informal outreach during a Parliament session, which he did not entertain.
Speaking about the developments, Seechewal expressed surprise at the roles played by Raghav Chadha and Sandeep Pathak in Punjab, noting their significant influence over party and administrative affairs in the state. While he refrained from speculating on their reasons for leaving, he acknowledged that only those involved could explain the dissatisfaction behind the move. He also avoided using harsh language like “gaddar” for defectors, emphasising restraint and dignity in public discourse.
Seechewal highlighted that he never sought political office and had accepted his Rajya Sabha nomination at the request of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. He stated that he is not concerned about losing his position and remains committed to his work, particularly on Punjab-related issues. Known for his environmental efforts, including the revival of the Kali Bein river, Seechewal continues to stand apart as AAP’s only Rajya Sabha MP from Punjab following the recent political shift.