By The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has initiated a leadership reshuffle in the Rajya Sabha by proposing the appointment of MP Ashok Mittal as the party’s Deputy Leader in the Upper House, replacing Raghav Chadha. The party has formally written to the Rajya Sabha Secretariat seeking approval for the change, signalling an internal reorganisation at a time when AAP is preparing for upcoming political challenges, particularly in Punjab.
The development has drawn attention because Raghav Chadha was once considered one of the party’s most prominent young faces and a close aide of AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal. His reduced visibility in party events and limited participation in recent campaigns had already sparked speculation about his changing role within the organisation, and the latest move has further fueled political discussion around his future in the party.
According to party sources, the letter sent to the Rajya Sabha Secretariat proposes Ashok Mittal as the new Deputy Leader and suggests that speaking time from AAP’s quota in the House should now be allocated accordingly. However, Mittal has sought to downplay the development, describing it as a routine organisational decision rather than a disciplinary or political action against Chadha.
Speaking to reporters, Mittal said the party leadership has entrusted him with the responsibility and that he would focus on effectively presenting both the party’s position and national issues in Parliament. He emphasised that AAP follows a democratic process where different leaders are given opportunities to take on responsibilities and gain experience in parliamentary functioning. Mittal also dismissed speculation about Chadha joining another political party, stating that he had no knowledge of such rumours and that the party remains united.
Party leaders indicated that Chadha will continue to remain an important member of the Rajya Sabha team and will be given opportunities to speak in the House. They also hinted that his role in future political campaigns, especially in Punjab, will be decided at an appropriate time based on organisational requirements.
Currently, AAP has 10 members in the Rajya Sabha, with the majority representing Punjab, which has become a crucial political base for the party. The leadership change appears to be part of a broader strategy to strengthen parliamentary coordination and prepare for upcoming electoral battles, where experienced and regionally connected leaders are expected to play a key role.
Political observers see the move as an attempt by AAP to restructure its parliamentary leadership and distribute responsibilities more widely within the party. While the leadership insists that the decision is routine, the shift marks a notable change in the party’s internal dynamics and could influence its political strategy in the months ahead.
