In a significant move with political overtones, the Centre has granted Z+ category security to Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha after the Punjab government withdrew his security cover earlier on Wednesday. The decision, taken by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), comes against the backdrop of an escalating rift within the AAP and growing speculation over Chadha’s standing in the party.
Security upgrade based on threat assessment
Sources said the enhanced protection will be provided by central paramilitary forces and will cover Chadha in both Delhi and Punjab. The decision follows a threat perception report submitted by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and a subsequent assessment by the MHA.
Officials indicated that the move was precautionary and based on security inputs, though it has also triggered political chatter given the timing—just hours after Punjab withdrew his state-provided security.
Punjab withdrawal fuels political speculation
The Punjab government’s decision to pull back Chadha’s security detail earlier in the day raised eyebrows, especially as it coincides with visible signs of unease between the leader and the party leadership.
While there has been no official statement linking the withdrawal to internal party dynamics, the sequence of events has intensified speculation about a widening divide within the AAP.
Recent organisational changes have added to the uncertainty surrounding Chadha’s role in the party. His removal from a key parliamentary position and subsequent public remarks have drawn attention to possible differences within the leadership.
Timeline of key developments
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April 2: AAP appoints Ashok Mittal as Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha, replacing Raghav Chadha. The move is seen as a major organisational shift, signalling a change in the party’s parliamentary strategy and leadership structure.
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April 3: Chadha reacts, says he has been “silenced, not defeated.” In his first response, he hints at internal disagreements while asserting his continued commitment to public service.
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April 8: Instagram post sparks fresh buzz. A post featuring a supporter suggesting the formation of a new youth-led political outfit fuels speculation about his future political course.
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April 10: Chadha emphasises performance over position. Amid ongoing tensions, he shares a message stating that his parliamentary work will speak for itself, indicating a measured but firm stance.
(With inputs from IANS)