Internal tensions rise in AAP as Raghav Chadha rebuts claims of neglecting Punjab concerns in Parliament
April 5, 2026: Raghav Chadha on Sunday strongly countered criticism from within the Aam Aadmi Party after being accused of failing to raise Punjab-related issues during his tenure as deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha. A day after his removal from the post, Chadha shared a video compilation of his speeches in Parliament, highlighting his interventions on matters such as MSP for farmers, air pollution, and demands related to Anandpur Sahib and Shri Nankana Sahib. Taking a swipe at party colleagues, he suggested the criticism was coordinated and said his work in Parliament spoke for itself.
The backlash comes after senior Punjab leaders, including Harpal Singh Cheema, Aman Arora, and Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal, questioned Chadha’s performance, alleging he failed to raise key state concerns. They pointed to pending Rural Development Fund dues, GST compensation losses, and flood relief funds as major issues that were not adequately highlighted in Parliament. Cheema termed the alleged inaction “disappointing,” saying Chadha was expected to strongly represent Punjab’s interests at the national level.
The public exchange has exposed growing friction within the party, with leaders stressing that raising public issues fearlessly is central to AAP’s ideology. While Chadha has attempted to defend his record through documented speeches, the criticism from the Punjab unit signals a widening internal divide over accountability and political messaging ahead of future electoral challenges.