Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday sparked fresh political controversy by claiming that AAP MP Raghav Chadha may have been “compromised,” strongly defending the party’s decision to remove him as Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha.
Addressing a press conference in Chandigarh, Mann said party discipline must be followed at all costs, especially in Parliament. He made it clear that any leader who deviates from the party’s official stance would face consequences.
Why Did Mann Call Chadha “Compromised”?
Mann questioned Chadha’s recent speeches in Parliament, suggesting that they were not aligned with the party’s key political agenda.
“If the party is raising serious issues like voter deletion, fake voters, and attempts to divide Punjab, and someone talks about samosa prices at airports, then questions will be raised,” Mann said.
He added that such actions naturally create doubt about a leader’s intent, stating that he personally believes Chadha has been “compromised.”
AAP’s Action and Chadha’s Response
The Aam Aadmi Party had earlier written to the Rajya Sabha Secretariat seeking Chadha’s removal from the Deputy Leader post, signaling internal restructuring ahead of crucial political developments.
Reacting to the move, Chadha posted a sharp message on social media: “Silenced, not defeated.”
In a video statement, he defended his record, saying he has always raised issues concerning the public and questioned whether doing so should attract punishment.
“Do Not Mistake My Silence…”
Chadha also issued a strong warning, saying his silence should not be seen as weakness.
“Do not mistake my silence for defeat,” he said, hinting that he would speak out at the right time.
Internal Tensions Escalate in AAP
The controversy has exposed growing cracks within the party. Several AAP leaders have openly criticised Chadha, accusing him of not attacking Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly enough and lacking the party’s core value of “fearlessness.”
