Raghav Chadha Addresses Backlash on Joining BJP in New Video, Cites ‘Toxic Work Environment’ in AAP In a video statement released on April 26, 2026, Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha addressed criticism following his decision to quit the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Speaking from New Delhi, Chadha said he had endured a “toxic work environment” within AAP for several years, citing internal dissent and a drift from the party’s founding principles as key reasons for his departure. Chadha emphasized that his move was not impulsive but the result of prolonged reflection. “I gave 15 years of my youth to AAP,” he said. “The party I helped build has now completely deviated from its values. It is no longer working for the country or in the national interest, but for personal gain.” He added that many party members and supporters had privately expressed similar concerns over time, reinforcing his belief that he was “the right man in the wrong party.” The video comes days after Chadha, along with six other AAP Rajya Sabha MPs, formally submitted merger documents to the Rajya Sabha Chairman, citing constitutional provisions that allow groups of legislators to merge with another party without triggering disqualification under anti-defection laws. The MPs claimed their action represented more than two-thirds of AAP’s Rajya Sabha contingent. Chadha denied allegations of external pressure or inducement, stating that the decision was made collectively after internal discussions. He dismissed suggestions that the move was timed to benefit the BJP politically, asserting that his primary motivation was ideological alignment and frustration with AAP’s direction. Since joining the BJP, Chadha has been seen meeting with party leadership, including BJP president Nitin Nabin. He has not yet been assigned a formal role within the party but indicated his intention to contribute to national policy debates, particularly on governance and anti-corruption measures. AAP leaders have not issued a public response to Chadha’s video statement as of April 27, 2026. The party has, however, filed a petition with the Rajya Sabha Chairman seeking the disqualification of the seven MPs, arguing that their merger does not meet constitutional safeguards. The development marks one of the most significant internal shifts in AAP since its formation and underscores growing tensions within the party ahead of key state elections, including the upcoming Punjab assembly polls where AAP currently holds power.
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