'Silenced, Not Defeated': Raghav Chadha Breaks Silence Over Rajya Sabha Snub, Asks AAP If Raising Public Issues A Crime?

New Delhi: A day after being replaced by Ashok Mittal as the Aam Aadmi Party’s deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha, Raghav Chadha on Friday expressed his dissatisfaction and took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a video addressed to the ‘aam aadmi.’

Chadha through the video asserted that throughout his tenure in Parliament, he has consistently prioritised public issues, often addressing unconventional topics that rarely receive floor time. He questioned whether advocating for the common man had been deemed a "crime" or a "mistake" by his party. 

He said, “Have I committed a crime? Have I made a mistake? Have I done something wrong? I am asking this question today because the AAP has told the Rajya Sabha Secretariat to stop Raghav Chadha from speaking in the parliament.”

Motive behind the move?

The MP also questioned the motives behind the move to silence him, asserting that his speeches have always centered on the struggles of the average citizen. He specifically pointed to his efforts in highlighting the 'exorbitant' cost of food and beverages at Indian airports as an example of the public interest issues he champions.

Chadha said, “I talk about the problem of Zomato Blinkit delivery riders. I raise the issue of adulteration in food. I talk about the loot of toll plazas and bank charges.”

Advocacy for middle class

Chadha further cited his advocacy for the middle class, specifically his opposition to the tax burdens that led to strikes among content creators. He also highlighted his efforts to reform the telecom sector, where he had criticized the '13 recharges in 12 months' cycle and the lack of data rollover policies. 

According to Chadha, these parliamentary interventions were designed to provide direct relief to the common man, making his current exclusion from the House speaking list all the more significant.

In a video posted on X, he said, “After the recharge is over, they stop the income. I raise all these issues in the parliament. And after raising these issues, the common man of the country benefited.”

'Unlimited Love'

Chadha further questioned the motives behind silencing a voice that champions the public, expressing gratitude for the "unlimited love" and support he has received from the people. He issued an emotional appeal for continued solidarity, urging citizens to "hold his hand" as he navigates this political sidelining. Addressing those who stripped him of his parliamentary speaking rights, Chadha delivered a stern warning: "Do not mistake my silence for defeat." He concluded with a defiant metaphor, likening himself to a river that will inevitably transform into a flood when the time is right.

Ending his speech, he stated, “Don't consider my silence as my defeat. I am that river that becomes a flood when the time comes.”