Raghav Chadha’s defection to BJP, along with six other MPs, marks a significant political shift for AAP ahead of the crucial 2027 Punjab Assembly elections. Chadha, once a key strategist for AAP in Punjab, played an influential role in the party’s rise during the 2022 elections when AAP secured 92 seats.
Chadha announced his departure during a press conference, stating, “We, the two-third members belonging to the AAP in the Rajya Sabha, exercise the provisions of the Constitution of India and merge ourselves with the BJP.” This move reduces AAP’s strength in the Rajya Sabha from seven to one—an impactful loss for the party.
After being removed as deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha on April 2, Chadha claimed that AAP had fallen into the hands of corrupt leaders. He distanced himself from party activities and expressed dissatisfaction with the current leadership. His comments reflect growing discontent within AAP ranks.
Bhagwant Mann, Punjab Chief Minister, referred to the defectors as “gaddars” (traitors). He criticized their decision and emphasized that such actions would not be forgiven by the people of Punjab. Political analysts view this split as one of the most significant in AAP’s history.
The defection raises concerns about AAP’s electoral prospects heading into the Punjab Assembly elections. Amarinder Singh Raja Warring warned that this development exposed AAP’s lack of ideological foundation and could lead to further defections. The BJP strategy appears focused on exploiting these internal rifts within opposition parties.
Observers note that Chadha had previously attempted to position himself as AAP’s Leader in the Rajya Sabha during a leadership crisis. His efforts included being appointed chairman of a temporary government advisory committee in July 2022. Yet, his sidelining within party leadership may have contributed to his decision to leave.
The BJP is accused of leveraging agencies like ED and CBI to manipulate AAP MPs into switching sides—a tactic often referred to as Operation Lotus. With six out of seven Rajya Sabha MPs now joining BJP, this situation raises questions about stability within AAP.
As political dynamics shift rapidly in Punjab, all eyes will be on how AAP adapts to these changes ahead of the upcoming elections. The fallout from this defection could reshape not only party alliances but also voter sentiment in a critical electoral landscape.