New Delhi, April 3 (NationPress) A member of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Raghav Chadha, who was previously regarded as a significant figure in the close circle of AAP Convenor Arvind Kejriwal, is currently facing criticism from senior party officials, as well as Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and former Delhi Chief Minister Atishi. They have characterized him as a "coward and frightened" politician who has "compromised" his principles for political advantage.

The political tension escalated on Friday when Raghav Chadha posted a video expressing his views on his dismissal as AAP's Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha. He cautioned his critics not to misinterpret his silence regarding his removal as an admission of defeat.

Sanjay Singh, AAP's Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha, criticized Raghav Chadha, questioning his integrity and performance, stating that he had consistently failed to meet the party's expectations.

"You remain silent when the Election Commission of India (EC) infringes on the voting rights of citizens in West Bengal. You do not speak out against the bias of the poll body when the Opposition raises concerns. You have never voiced your dissent against the Modi government. You stayed quiet while our AAP workers faced harassment in Gujarat," Singh remarked, asserting his position as the "true soldier" of Arvind Kejriwal.

In a press briefing, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann supported Chadha's removal from the Upper House, stating that anyone who strays from the party's agenda should face consequences.

Echoing the sentiments of AAP officials who criticized Raghav Chadha for his "questionable" behavior, Mann stated that party members are expected to support the party's stance in the House, and failure to do so is an affront to party discipline, warranting disciplinary action.

"In Gujarat, our leaders and volunteers faced legal issues that should have been addressed. In Punjab, efforts are underway to provoke people on the basis of religion and caste that demand discussion. It raises suspicion when the focus is shifted to trivial matters like samosa prices at the airport," the Punjab Chief Minister questioned.

Atishi, a trusted ally of AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal, launched a direct attack on Raghav Chadha, posing several incisive questions to him.

"Why are you (Raghav Chadha) afraid of the BJP? Why do you hesitate to confront Prime Minister Modi? Why is raising questions a concern for you?" Atishi queried in a video statement.

She pointed out the nationwide crisis regarding LPG cylinders, stating that citizens are struggling with gas shortages.

"AAP has vigorously highlighted this issue, demanding accountability from the Union government, yet you chose to remain silent. Are you intimidated by PM Modi?" she pressed.

Recalling a past incident, Atishi mentioned that AAP supported Raghav Chadha despite his inconsistent reasoning during the unjust arrest of Arvind Kejriwal, but it seems to have failed to awaken his sense of responsibility.

"When Arvind Kejriwal was detained, we faced brutality on the streets. You (Raghav Chadha) might fear imprisonment and fled to London, but we are the soldiers of Kejriwal and will not bow down; we will continue to champion the causes of the people," Atishi affirmed.