Raghav Chadha leaves AAP, set to join BJP amid criticism of party and leadership tensions
Chadha criticised AAP, saying it has changed from its roots and is now corrupt and compromised
Chadha’s removal as AAP deputy leader in Rajya Sabha showed growing tensions within the party
Raghav Chadha has left the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and is set to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in a major political shift that could weaken AAP’s position in the Rajya Sabha.
In a strong remark about his former party, Chadha said AAP has moved away from its founding values. He added that the “old AAP is no longer the same AAP” and described it as “corrupt and compromised.” He also said he felt like “a right person in the wrong party.”
The break had been building for some time. Earlier this month, Chadha was removed from his post as AAP’s deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha, signalling growing tensions with the party leadership.
1 May 2026
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The move now appears to be triggering a wider shift within AAP’s parliamentary strength. Reports suggest that more than two-thirds of the party’s Rajya Sabha MPs, around seven members, may also align with the BJP alongside Chadha.
Raghav Chadha Political Journey
Raghav Chadha began his political journey during the 2012 Delhi Lokpal movement with Arvind Kejriwal, gradually becoming an important member of AAP. He rose quickly in the party, serving as national spokesperson and its youngest treasurer, demonstrating strong leadership and organisational skills.
Chadha also won the 2020 Delhi Assembly seat from Rajendra Nagar and served as Vice-Chairman of the Delhi Jal Board, gaining administrative experience.
In 2022, he became one of the youngest Rajya Sabha MPs, marking a major milestone in his career.
He also made headlines advocating paternity leave as a legal right, calling for equal caregiving responsibilities between fathers and mothers and highlighting progressive social policies.
Raghav Net Worth & Assets
Despite his political journey, according to multiple reports, Chadha’s financial profile is relatively modest, with an estimated net worth of around ₹50 lakh.
As a Rajya Sabha MP, he earns over ₹1 lakh per month, including salary, constituency allowances,and official benefits, following a structured and publicly regulated system.
His declared investments include approximately ₹6 lakh in stocks and mutual funds, alongside gold holdings of about 90 grams valued at ₹5 lakh.
Chadha owns a house in Delhi valued at ₹36–37 lakh and a 2009 Maruti Suzuki Swift Dzire worth ₹1.32 lakh, reflecting a grounded and simple lifestyle .
