Seven AAP Rajya Sabha MPs, led by Raghav Chadha, resigned and announced a merger with the BJP, pointing to ideological convergence and frustration with AAP’s current direction. Analysts say it fits a repeating pattern: legislators from smaller parties aligning with the BJP after breakpoints emerge within their original ranks.
Raghav Chadha announced that two-thirds of Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MPs will merge with the Bharatiya Janata Party, announcing seven members in a press conference. The move comes amid a history of internal turbulence in AAP since 2012, with multiple high-profile leaders including Shazia Ilmi and Kumar Vishwas previously distancing themselves over ideological differences and disputes.
Your news, in seconds
Get the Beige app — every story in 60 words, updated hourly. Free on iOS & Android.
The Aam Aadmi Party has accused the BJP of running “Operation Lotus” after seven AAP Rajya Sabha MPs, including Raghav Chadha, defected to the saffron party. AAP leader Sanjay Singh claimed the move was orchestrated by BJP. Chadha said the MPs chose “positive politics,” distancing from alleged party “crimes” and invoking constitutional provisions to merge.
Swipe through stories, personalise your feed, and save articles for later — all on the app.
