The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has removed Raghav Chadha from his position as deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha, appointing Punjab MP Ashok Mittal as his replacement. The decision, taken under the leadership of Arvind Kejriwal, has drawn attention within political circles, especially given Chadha’s prominence in the party’s leadership over the years.
While the party has not issued an official explanation for the change, the move comes amid ongoing speculation about Chadha’s evolving role within AAP. The development is being viewed as a significant shift involving one of the party’s early and high-profile leaders. Raghav Chadha Ouster on Cards? AAP Writes to Rajya Sabha Secretariat to Appoint Ashok Mittal as Deputy Leader.
AAP Replaces Raghav Chadha as Rajya Sabha Deputy Leader
VIDEO | Parliament Session: AAP MP Ashok Mittal on party removing Raghav Chadha as Rajya Sabha Deputy Leader says, “Such changes in leadership positions are a continuous process. Earlier, ND Gupta ji was Deputy Leader, then Raghav ji took over, and now I have been given the… https://t.co/IsOsrnIHN3 pic.twitter.com/hqs4OOROVm
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) April 2, 2026
Why Was Raghav Chadha Removed As AAP’s RS Deputy Leader
AAP has not publicly clarified why Chadha was removed from the post, but political observers point to recent developments that may have contributed to the decision. Chadha has been notably absent from several key party activities in recent months, raising questions about his current standing.
His limited public engagement on major political developments, such as legal and political developments involving senior leaders, has also fueled speculation about a possible internal reshuffle. What Are MPLADS Funds? All About the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme As Raghav Chadha Uses Funds To Build New Badminton and Volleyball Courts in Mohali.
Continued Parliamentary Role
Despite the leadership change, Chadha remains an active member of the Rajya Sabha. He has continued to raise issues in Parliament, including concerns over airport pricing, gig workers’ rights, and urban infrastructure challenges.
This suggests that while his organisational role has shifted, his legislative responsibilities remain unchanged.
Rise of Ashok Mittal
Chadha has been replaced by Ashok Mittal, a Punjab-based MP and chancellor of Lovely Professional University. Mittal acknowledged the transition, describing it as part of the party’s internal process that allows leaders to take on different responsibilities over time.
AAP currently has 10 members in the Rajya Sabha, with a majority from Punjab, reflecting the party’s growing base in the state.
Raghav Chadha’s Journey in AAP
At 37, Raghav Chadha has been associated with AAP since its formation, joining during the India Against Corruption movement. A chartered accountant by profession, he played an early role in drafting policy initiatives such as the Delhi Lokpal Bill.
Over the years, he emerged as one of the party’s prominent faces, serving as national spokesperson and later as a Rajya Sabha MP. His proximity to Kejriwal and rapid rise had positioned him among the party’s key leaders.
The leadership change is being interpreted as part of a broader internal recalibration within AAP. While no formal reason has been provided, the shift may reflect changing priorities or strategic adjustments within the party. For now, the decision leaves open questions about Chadha’s future role, even as he continues to serve in Parliament.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 02, 2026 04:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).













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