Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, launched a blistering attack on his former party, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), accusing it of "vindictive politics" and misusing state machinery to target leaders who formally merged with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on 24 April 2026. Chadha alleged a systematic campaign of intimidation — spanning stone-pelting, fabricated FIRs, and administrative harassment — directed at the seven MPs who crossed over to the BJP.

The Break and the Bitterness

Chadha drew a sharp contrast between AAP's treatment of its members before and after the split. "As long as we were obedient, we were called virtuous. The moment we parted ways, we were branded corrupt. Those who describe loot and plunder as 'staunch honesty' — how can anyone maintain friendship with them?" he said.

He likened AAP's response to that of "an obsessed, jilted ex", alleging the party has been unable to accept the exit of its senior MPs and has turned retaliatory. The remarks mark one of the sharpest public rebukes of AAP by a former insider since the merger.

Alleged Harassment of Harbhajan Singh and Rajinder Gupta

Chadha cited specific cases he claimed illustrate the pattern of intimidation. He alleged that former cricketer and MP Harbhajan Singh faced slogans outside his residence in Jalandhar, objectionable remarks against his family, stone-pelting at his house, and "anti-national" graffiti — allegedly with the involvement of the Punjab Police.

He also accused the Punjab government of targeting industrialist and Padma Shri awardee Rajinder Gupta, alleging that Gupta's factory in the Malwa region — which Chadha said supports around 30,000 families — faced administrative pressure, including the cutting of its water supply and repeated inspections by the State Pollution Control Board aimed at shutting it down.

FIRs Against Sandeep Pathak and Threats Against Chadha

Chadha raised concerns over alleged action against MP Sandeep Pathak, claiming that two "malicious and fabricated" FIRs were filed against him, accompanied by media reports suggesting his imminent arrest.

He also warned that he himself may be next. "According to sources, it is now being said that I will be the next target. Action may be taken against me as well. I want to inform you all in advance that they (AAP) may be planning to fabricate false cases against me too," Chadha said. He added that agencies based in Mumbai had allegedly been engaged to spread abuse against them on social media, and that "our families are being targeted" through what he described as a misuse of public money for political vendetta.

Warning to AAP and Appeal to Punjab Officials

Chadha issued a pointed warning to AAP, noting the asymmetry of political power. "AAP governs one state, while the BJP is in power in 21 states. The path of revenge politics you have chosen can lead to consequences no one can foresee. It is better to step back," he said.

He also appealed directly to Punjab government officials, urging them not to yield to alleged political pressure. "You are respected professionals. Do not be intimidated by threats of transfers or suspension for not acting against a handful of individuals," he said, adding that the current government's tenure is limited. Chadha concluded by expressing confidence that AAP would be "wiped out" from Punjab in the near future.