Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Friday indicated disciplinary action against Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha, saying he suspects the AAP leader may have “compromised”.
Responding to questions on Chadha’s recent remarks, Mann said action becomes necessary if a party member does not follow the party line on key issues.
“If someone does not walk out on important matters, refuses to speak on voter issues in West Bengal or stays silent on arrests of party workers in Gujarat, then action has to be taken. He has gone against the party whip,” Mann said.
He also criticised Chadha for raising “non-serious issues” such as expensive food at airports instead of key political concerns.
Mann added that leadership changes in Parliament are routine, citing past examples within the party.
The remarks come a day after Chadha, who was removed as AAP’s deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha, warned the party leadership not to mistake his silence for weakness.
In a video message, Chadha questioned why the party had asked the Rajya Sabha Secretariat not to allot him speaking time. He defended raising issues related to the common man, including airport prices, gig workers, food adulteration and hidden bank charges.
“When the time comes, I will explain everything,” Chadha said, warning that he would return stronger.
The developments have intensified speculation of a widening rift within AAP, especially with Ashok Mittal replacing Chadha as deputy leader in the Upper House.
Chadha, who played a key role in AAP’s 2022 Punjab victory, had earlier been seen as a central figure in the party’s decision-making.
