Cites “departure from core values” in AAP, the move could significantly alter Upper House dynamics
New Delhi: A major political realignment appears to be underway after Raghav Chadha on April 24, confirmed his decision to move towards the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), along with a substantial section of the Aam Aadmi Party’s (AAP) Rajya Sabha members.
The former AAP leader said the decision followed “deep reflection” on the party’s direction. “I increasingly felt like the right person in the wrong party,” he remarked, alleging that AAP had drifted away from its founding principles of transparency and clean governance. He added that formal communication regarding the merger has already been submitted to the Rajya Sabha Chairman.
Addressing a press conference with Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal, AAP MP Raghav Chadha says, “We, the 2/3rd members of the Parliament belonging to the Aam Aadmi Party in Rajya Sabha, exercise the provisions of the Constitution of India and merge ourselves with the BJP.”
According to sources, several MPs, including Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal, are expected to back the move. If completed, the shift would reduce AAP’s presence in the Upper House considerably, leaving only a handful of members with the party.
Notably, the development comes amid reports of internal friction within AAP, especially after Chadha was removed from a key parliamentary role in recent weeks. Consequently, political observers see this as both a strategic and symbolic setback for the party leadership.
Meanwhile, AAP leaders have reacted sharply, accusing Chadha of betrayal and alleging attempts to weaken the party. However, there has been no immediate official confirmation from the BJP.
Further clarity is expected once procedural formalities are completed.
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