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New Delhi/Chandigarh: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has informed the Rajya Sabha Secretariat about replacing Raghav Chadha with Ashok Mittal as the party’s new Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha, signalling a significant internal reshuffle.
The communication was sent by AAP’s leader in the Upper House, Sanjay Singh. The party has also conveyed that Chadha, a Rajya Sabha MP from Punjab, should no longer be allotted speaking time from the party’s quota in the House.
Strategic Shift Ahead of Punjab Polls
Sources confirmed the development, which is being viewed as politically significant, especially with the 2027 Punjab Assembly elections approaching. Chadha had until recently been considered close to AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal and was often seen as one of his key lieutenants.
Who is Ashok Mittal?
Ashok Mittal, now elevated to the position, is the founder and chancellor of Lovely Professional University (LPU) and is also associated with the Lovely Sweets business group in Jalandhar. His elevation indicates a possible shift in AAP’s parliamentary strategy and leadership structure in the Upper House.
Chadha’s Recent Role
Chadha had been actively participating in debates, particularly during Zero Hour, and was recently credited with raising issues related to social security for gig workers at e-commerce food delivery companies, prompting government action.
Political Significance
The move to replace Chadha and curtail his speaking role is being seen as a major organisational decision within AAP, reflecting internal recalibration as the party gears up for upcoming political battles in Punjab. Further developments are expected as the party reshapes its leadership roles both within Parliament and at the state level.
