'You've been scared of Modi': AAP responds to Raghav Chadha
What's the story
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has hit back at Raghav Chadha, who claimed that he had been "silenced" after he was removed as the party's deputy leader in the Upper House. Responding to Chadha, AAP media in-charge Anurag Dhanda accused Chadha of losing his political edge and being afraid to take on the central government. "For the past few years, you've grown afraid....You hesitate to speak against Modi. You hesitate to speak on the country's real issues," Dhanda said.
Performance critique
'You hesitate to speak against Modi'
Dhanda also slammed Chadha for not taking a stand on important issues in Parliament. "In Parliament, the party gets just a little time to speak—in that, we can either struggle to save the nation or push to make samosas cheaper in the airport canteen," he said, taking a dig at Chadha. He cited instances such as the arrest of AAP workers in Gujarat and the alleged snatching of voting rights in West Bengal to question Chadha's silence.
Public response
Chadha says he was 'silenced, not defeated'
In a video message on X, Chadha had questioned the AAP's decision to stop him from speaking in Parliament. "Whenever I get a chance to speak in Parliament, I raise public issues. Maybe I raise topics not usually raised, but is raising public issues a crime? Have I committed a crime? Have I done something wrong?" Chadha asked. "I am asking this question because the AAP told the Secretariat to stop Raghav Chadda from speaking in Parliament," he said.
Issues raised
Do not mistake my silence for defeat: Chadha
Chadha listed issues he had raised in Parliament, including concerns of gig workers and rising food prices at airports. He questioned what loss the AAP suffered because of his speeches. In another post, he thanked his supporters, saying they had given him immense love and support. "Do not mistake my silence for defeat," Chadha concluded his remarks with a metaphor comparing himself to a river that can turn into a flood when needed.
Political journey
Chadha was instrumental in expanding AAP's presence beyond Delhi
Chadha joined AAP during its rise and became one of Arvind Kejriwal's trusted aides. He was instrumental in expanding the party beyond Delhi and forming a government in Punjab under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Punjab MP Ashok Mittal, who is also the chancellor of Lovely Professional University, will replace him.