Raghav Chadha, a prominent Rajya Sabha MP from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), finds himself at the center of a political storm. Allegations have surfaced that he struck a deal with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. This alleged agreement has led to a significant political shift in Punjab.
On April 24, 2026, seven AAP Rajya Sabha MPs defected to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This move raises eyebrows and questions about loyalty within the party. Before this event, AAP had ten members in the Rajya Sabha. Now, they face a daunting challenge.
Baltej Pannu, an AAP leader, stated, “Raghav Chadha was asked to bring seven AAP MPs into the BJP fold.” He further accused Chadha of being part of a larger conspiracy to destabilize AAP in Punjab.
Moreover, Pannu claimed that Chadha had been tasked with terrorizing fellow MPs through pressure from the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Such tactics are reminiscent of what many call ‘Operation Lotus’—a strategy employed by the BJP to poach opposition members.
Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer, another AAP member, expressed his discontent by saying that Chadha had “stabbed Punjab and the party in the back” by allegedly collaborating with Shah. The emotional weight of such statements reflects deep divisions within AAP.
The defected MPs assert they are safe from disqualification because they represent more than two-thirds of the AAP Parliamentary party in Rajya Sabha. This claim could complicate legal proceedings for both parties involved.
Chadha’s actions have provoked varied reactions among observers. While some see it as a strategic move for personal gain—rumors suggest he was promised a ministerial berth at the Centre—others view it as an attack on democratic integrity.
The BJP now holds 141 seats in the Upper House thanks to this defection. This new strength could significantly influence future legislation and governance.
As this situation unfolds, officials have not confirmed any further details regarding potential repercussions for Chadha or the defecting MPs. The political landscape in Punjab is shifting rapidly, and many are watching closely.
This incident underscores ongoing tensions between AAP and BJP in Punjab. With allegations flying and loyalties tested, only time will reveal how this political drama will play out.
