Atishi Marlena Questions Raghav Chadha In AAP Row; Flags BJP’s ‘Praise’

Amid escalating tensions within the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Leader of Opposition in Delhi, Atishi, on Friday responded to recent developments involving party MP Raghav Chadha. Her remarks came after Chadha was removed as Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha, with Ashok Mittal appointed in his place.

Atishi said that the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) reaction to Chadha’s situation has made political alignments evident. She further noted that the BJP’s praise for Chadha and its remarks questioning why he has not joined them signal where loyalties may lie.

This follows Chadha’s post on social media platform X, where he wrote, “Silenced, not defeated My message to the ‘aam aadmi’ — खामोश करवाया गया हूँ, हारा नहीं हूँ ‘आम आदमी’ को मेरे संदेश.”

Speaking to IANS, Atishi emphasised that the issue goes beyond personal relationships.

While acknowledging her long association with Chadha, she clarified that the matter concerns broader principles.

“This is not about personal clashes or individual ties. Raghav Chadha is my friend; we have worked together in politics and in the Aam Aadmi Party for the past 15 years. This is not about friendship. This is about the country and its Constitution,” she said.

Atishi further alleged that democratic institutions are under strain, pointing to concerns about electoral processes.

Atishi raised questions about alleged irregularities, citing developments in West Bengal and drawing parallels with the Delhi elections. She accused the BJP of misusing institutions like the Election Commission and claimed that it is compromising democratic norms.

Atishi also referred to Chadha’s recent parliamentary conduct. She said he did not sign an impeachment motion brought by the Trinamool Congress.

Atishi further said that he did not participate in an Opposition walkout. She added that he failed to raise key public issues. These included LPG cylinder prices and concerns over international policy matters, despite being asked by the party.

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