New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha has issued a defiant response following his removal as the party’s Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha. In an emotional video shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, April 3, 2026, Chadha addressed the internal reshuffle for the first time, stating, “Do not mistake my silence for defeat. I have been silenced, but I am not defeated.” The development has sent shockwaves through the party’s ranks, as Chadha once considered a core member of Arvind Kejriwal’s inner circle was replaced by Punjab MP Ashok Mittal.
The move marks a significant shift in AAP’s internal dynamics, with the party leadership also formally requesting the Rajya Sabha Secretariat to no longer allocate speaking time to Chadha from the AAP quota. In his video message, Chadha questioned the party’s motives, asking, “Is raising public issues a crime? Have I committed an offence?” He highlighted his recent parliamentary interventions on “middle-class” issues, such as the rising cost of airport meals, the struggles of Zomato and Blinkit delivery riders, and the controversial “13 recharges in 12 months” practice by telecom companies.
Key highlights from Raghav Chadha’s video address:
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The “Silenced” Voice: Chadha claimed that the party specifically asked Parliament to deny him the opportunity to speak, despite his history of raising concerns about bank charges, food adulteration, and toll plaza irregularities.
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Telecom and Gig Economy: He reminded supporters of his fight against telecom firms that block incoming calls upon recharge expiry and his advocacy for social security for gig workers. “Raising these issues benefited the common man; how did it hurt the Aam Aadmi Party?” he questioned.
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A Plea to Supporters: Addressing his followers, Chadha urged them to continue their support, saying, “I am yours and I am for you. Do not let go of my hand.”
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Targeting the “Decision-Makers”: Without naming specific leaders, he sent a sharp message to those who “snatched” his right to speak, asserting that his commitment to public service remains unshaken despite the disciplinary action.
Political analysts suggest that the rift may stem from Chadha’s perceived “distance” from the party during high-profile legal crises involving senior leaders over the past year. While new Deputy Leader Ashok Mittal described the change as a “routine organizational decision” to provide different members with leadership experience, the specific request to block Chadha’s speaking time suggests a deeper disciplinary rift. As the video continues to go viral, the AAP leadership has yet to issue an official rebuttal to Chadha’s specific allegations of being “muzzled” within the House.
