April 24, 2026

. NEW DELHI: Classrooms across the world are being quietly reset as govts redraw boundaries between learning and screen time. In just three years, the share of education systems restricting or banning mobile phones in schools has more than doubled — from 24% in 2023 to 58% in 2026 — with 114 systems now enforcing national-level curbs, according to Unesco’s Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report 2026.In India, however, the shift is unfolding unevenly, with states and schools taking the lead in the absence of a national policy. The move signals a decisive transition away from the early Covid pandemic-era push for unrestricted digital access towards a more controlled, outcomes-driven approach.The pace of adoption is striking — the share had alrea-dy reached 40% by early 2025, underscoring how quickly govts globally have responded to concerns over distraction, discipline and excessive scre-en exposure. The report fra-mes this as a structural policy shift, not a temporary correction — placing learning outcomes, not device access, at the centre of education systems.For India, the trend sharpens an unresolved policy dilemma. Despite rapid smartphone penetration — over 85% of households now have at le-ast one device — there is no national framework governing phone use in schools. Instead, regulation remains fragmented across states, school boards and individual institutions.Some states have begun moving decisively. Himachal Pradesh has announced a statewide ban on students carrying mobile phones to schools from March 2026, marking one of the most comprehensive subnational interventions. Karnataka, while stopping short of a school-day ban, is examining wider digital exposure through proposals to restrict social media access for children under 16 — reflecting a broader concern that extends beyond classrooms.Globally, the policy landscape remains diverse. While countries such as France have imposed near-total bans in certain grades, others — including the UK — have opted for national guidance with school-level enforcement. In federal systems, such as the US and Germany, regulation is increasingly driven at state or regional levels, often preceding wider national action. Unesco has noted a parallel trend with some countries mandating schools to frame their own policies rather than imposing blanket bans, signalling a shift towards institutional accountability alongside regulation.Crucially, the evidence base is shaping policy. Studies cited in the GEM report link restrictions on phone use with improved academic performance and reduced classroom disruption. But the report cautions against simplistic prohibition, arguing that schools must also equip students with digital literacy and responsible usage skills.That balance — between control and capability — is where India’s next policy move will likely be tested. With global systems converging on structured regulation, the question is no longer whether to act, but whether India continues with a decentralised approach or evolves towards a national framework that integrates discipline, digital learning and equity.About the AuthorManash Pratim GohainManash Pratim Gohain is a seasoned journalist with over two decades at The Times of India, where he has built a rich body of work spanning education policy, politics, and governance. Renowned for his incisive coverage of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, accreditation reforms, and skilling initiatives, he has also reported on student politics, urban policy, and social movements. His political reportage—both reflective and news-driven—adds depth to his writing, bridging policy with public impact. Through his 2,500 articles and related outlets, he has emerged as a trusted voice in national discourse, particularly in linking education reform to broader societal change.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosHow Raghav Chadha, Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal Exit Triggers AAP CrisisAAP Targets Raghav Chadha & MPs Over Exit, Says they ‘Betrayed The People Of Punjab’Meet The 7 AAP MPs Who Resigned And Joined BJP In Big Political Shock To KejriwalRaghav Chadha Quits AAP, Joins BJP With Six Other MPs | WatchBihar CM Samrat Choudhary Clears Floor Test, NDA Government Proves Majority In AssemblyTamil Nadu Polls See Surge in First-Time Voters, Youth Drive Record TurnoutBJP Declares Yogi Adityanath as CM Face for 2027 UP Assembly ElectionsRSS’ Dattatreya Hosabale In US: “Hindus Not Supremacist, Have Nothing To Apologise For”“Unfair To Drag Armed Forces”: Gen MM Naravane After Rahul Gandhi Cites Unpublished Memoir In LSIndia Urges Citizens Not To Travel To Iran, Asks Nationals To Leave Amid Ongoing Tensions123PhotostoriesA rare moment put Ranthambore National Park back in the spotlight — 5 reasons fans are going now‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ star Anne Hathaway’s most iconic red carpet looksThis everyday travel item often triggers airport bag checks — and you probably packed itVitamin B12 deficiency is more common than you think: Foods you need in your daily diet‘Raja Shivaji’, ‘Chand Mera Dil’, ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh Do’: Bollywood releases slated for May 2026’The Devil Wears Prada 2′ cast then vs now: How Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway and more have evolved 20 years after the originalIs your Jamdani saree real or fake? Here’s how to tellHow Rs 7 lakh gaming debt allegedly led to brutal rape-murder in South Delhi homeFrom rift with Rupali Ganguly to almost being cast as Smriti Irani’s daughter in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi: Anupamaa’s Nidhi Shah gets candidGlobal Property Hotspots: 5 most valuable residential markets123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

Vamsikrishna03 mins mins
. NEW DELHI: Classrooms across the world are being quietly reset as govts redraw boundaries between learning and screen time. In just three years, the share of education systems restricting or banning mobile phones in schools has more than doubled — from 24% in 2023 to 58% in 2026 — with 114 systems now enforcing national-level curbs, according to Unesco’s Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report 2026.In India, however, the shift is unfolding unevenly, with states and schools taking the lead in the absence of a national policy. The move signals a decisive transition away from the early Covid pandemic-era push for unrestricted digital access towards a more controlled, outcomes-driven approach.The pace of adoption is striking — the share had alrea-dy reached 40% by early 2025, underscoring how quickly govts globally have responded to concerns over distraction, discipline and excessive scre-en exposure. The report fra-mes this as a structural policy shift, not a temporary correction — placing learning outcomes, not device access, at the centre of education systems.For India, the trend sharpens an unresolved policy dilemma. Despite rapid smartphone penetration — over 85% of households now have at le-ast one device — there is no national framework governing phone use in schools. Instead, regulation remains fragmented across states, school boards and individual institutions.Some states have begun moving decisively. Himachal Pradesh has announced a statewide ban on students carrying mobile phones to schools from March 2026, marking one of the most comprehensive subnational interventions. Karnataka, while stopping short of a school-day ban, is examining wider digital exposure through proposals to restrict social media access for children under 16 — reflecting a broader concern that extends beyond classrooms.Globally, the policy landscape remains diverse. While countries such as France have imposed near-total bans in certain grades, others — including the UK — have opted for national guidance with school-level enforcement. In federal systems, such as the US and Germany, regulation is increasingly driven at state or regional levels, often preceding wider national action. Unesco has noted a parallel trend with some countries mandating schools to frame their own policies rather than imposing blanket bans, signalling a shift towards institutional accountability alongside regulation.Crucially, the evidence base is shaping policy. Studies cited in the GEM report link restrictions on phone use with improved academic performance and reduced classroom disruption. But the report cautions against simplistic prohibition, arguing that schools must also equip students with digital literacy and responsible usage skills.That balance — between control and capability — is where India’s next policy move will likely be tested. With global systems converging on structured regulation, the question is no longer whether to act, but whether India continues with a decentralised approach or evolves towards a national framework that integrates discipline, digital learning and equity.About the AuthorManash Pratim GohainManash Pratim Gohain is a seasoned journalist with over two decades at The Times of India, where he has built a rich body of work spanning education policy, politics, and governance. Renowned for his incisive coverage of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, accreditation reforms, and skilling initiatives, he has also reported on student politics, urban policy, and social movements. His political reportage—both reflective and news-driven—adds depth to his writing, bridging policy with public impact. Through his 2,500 articles and related outlets, he has emerged as a trusted voice in national discourse, particularly in linking education reform to broader societal change.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosHow Raghav Chadha, Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal Exit Triggers AAP CrisisAAP Targets Raghav Chadha & MPs Over Exit, Says they ‘Betrayed The People Of Punjab’Meet The 7 AAP MPs Who Resigned And Joined BJP In Big Political Shock To KejriwalRaghav Chadha Quits AAP, Joins BJP With Six Other MPs | WatchBihar CM Samrat Choudhary Clears Floor Test, NDA Government Proves Majority In AssemblyTamil Nadu Polls See Surge in First-Time Voters, Youth Drive Record TurnoutBJP Declares Yogi Adityanath as CM Face for 2027 UP Assembly ElectionsRSS’ Dattatreya Hosabale In US: “Hindus Not Supremacist, Have Nothing To Apologise For”“Unfair To Drag Armed Forces”: Gen MM Naravane After Rahul Gandhi Cites Unpublished Memoir In LSIndia Urges Citizens Not To Travel To Iran, Asks Nationals To Leave Amid Ongoing Tensions123PhotostoriesA rare moment put Ranthambore National Park back in the spotlight — 5 reasons fans are going now‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ star Anne Hathaway’s most iconic red carpet looksThis everyday travel item often triggers airport bag checks — and you probably packed itVitamin B12 deficiency is more common than you think: Foods you need in your daily diet‘Raja Shivaji’, ‘Chand Mera Dil’, ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh Do’: Bollywood releases slated for May 2026’The Devil Wears Prada 2′ cast then vs now: How Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway and more have evolved 20 years after the originalIs your Jamdani saree real or fake? Here’s how to tellHow Rs 7 lakh gaming debt allegedly led to brutal rape-murder in South Delhi homeFrom rift with Rupali Ganguly to almost being cast as Smriti Irani’s daughter in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi: Anupamaa’s Nidhi Shah gets candidGlobal Property Hotspots: 5 most valuable residential markets123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap


In 3 years, mobile ban in schools globally have doubled: Report

NEW DELHI: Classrooms across the world are being quietly reset as govts redraw boundaries between learning and screen time. In just three years, the share of education systems restricting or banning mobile phones in schools has more than doubled — from 24% in 2023 to 58% in 2026 — with 114 systems now enforcing national-level curbs, according to Unesco’s Global Education Monitoring (GEM) Report 2026.In India, however, the shift is unfolding unevenly, with states and schools taking the lead in the absence of a national policy. The move signals a decisive transition away from the early Covid pandemic-era push for unrestricted digital access towards a more controlled, outcomes-driven approach.The pace of adoption is striking — the share had alrea-dy reached 40% by early 2025, underscoring how quickly govts globally have responded to concerns over distraction, discipline and excessive scre-en exposure. The report fra-mes this as a structural policy shift, not a temporary correction — placing learning outcomes, not device access, at the centre of education systems.For India, the trend sharpens an unresolved policy dilemma. Despite rapid smartphone penetration — over 85% of households now have at le-ast one device — there is no national framework governing phone use in schools. Instead, regulation remains fragmented across states, school boards and individual institutions.Some states have begun moving decisively. Himachal Pradesh has announced a statewide ban on students carrying mobile phones to schools from March 2026, marking one of the most comprehensive subnational interventions. Karnataka, while stopping short of a school-day ban, is examining wider digital exposure through proposals to restrict social media access for children under 16 — reflecting a broader concern that extends beyond classrooms.Globally, the policy landscape remains diverse. While countries such as France have imposed near-total bans in certain grades, others — including the UK — have opted for national guidance with school-level enforcement. In federal systems, such as the US and Germany, regulation is increasingly driven at state or regional levels, often preceding wider national action. Unesco has noted a parallel trend with some countries mandating schools to frame their own policies rather than imposing blanket bans, signalling a shift towards institutional accountability alongside regulation.Crucially, the evidence base is shaping policy. Studies cited in the GEM report link restrictions on phone use with improved academic performance and reduced classroom disruption. But the report cautions against simplistic prohibition, arguing that schools must also equip students with digital literacy and responsible usage skills.That balance — between control and capability — is where India’s next policy move will likely be tested. With global systems converging on structured regulation, the question is no longer whether to act, but whether India continues with a decentralised approach or evolves towards a national framework that integrates discipline, digital learning and equity.



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NEW DELHI: Just days before delivering his biggest political move yet, Raghav Chadha struck a cinematic note, invoking a Bollywood line from Dhurandhar: “ghayal hoon, isliye ghatak hoon” (I am wounded, therefore I am dangerous).In hindsight, the dialogue and its metaphor now read very differently. The “wounded” leader Raghav Chadha has not just walked away from Arvind Kejriwal’s AAP — he has crossed the political ‘border’ by joining the BJP. And in doing so, he may have inflicted the deepest wound yet on the AAP, proving to be the real lethal force for the party. More than a high-profile defection, Chadha’s move, along with a clutch of Rajya Sabha members, strikes at the party’s numbers, narrative, and national positioning. For AAP, the aftershocks are likely to be felt most sharply in Punjab, the only state where it holds full power and the foundation of its national ambitions. For the past few years, I could feel that I am the right man in the wrong party.- Raghav ChadhaHere are 5 reasons why Raghav Chadha’s exit may hit AAP where it hurts the most:1. Cost of this breakup in numbersThe exit of Raghav Chadha from the AAP is not just a political setback for the party; it delivers a sharp blow in pure numerical terms in Parliament.Raghav Chadha exited the party along with 6 other Rajya Sabha members. AAP’s strength has effectively shrunk from 10 MPs to just 3, following the reported shift of seven members. “We have decided that we, the 2/3rd members belonging to the AAP in Rajya Sabha, exercise the provisions of the Constitution of India and merge ourselves with the BJP,” Raghav Chadha said at a press conference, with Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal on stage.”There are 10 AAP MPs in the Rajya Sabha, more than 2/3rd of them are with us in this. They have signed, and this morning we submitted the signed letter and documents to the Rajya Sabha Chairman…three of them are here before you. Besides us, there are Harbhajan Singh, Rajinder Gupta, Vikramjit Singh Sahney and Swati Maliwal,” he said.Crossing the two-thirds mark allows the group to qualify as a merger under anti-defection rules, meaning the loss is both instant and irreversible. For AAP, that translates into a 70% drop in Upper House strength, severely limiting its ability to intervene in debates, secure committee positions, and shape national discourse.The setback is amplified by the fact that AAP’s Rajya Sabha presence is largely rooted in Punjab — its only full-state power base. A weakened parliamentary bench reduces the party’s ability to project Punjab’s interests at the national level, even as it continues to govern the state.2. ‘New politics’ brand takes credibility hitWhile severing ties with the AAP, Raghav Chadha said: “The AAP, which I nurtured with my blood and sweat, and gave 15 years of my youth to, has deviated from its principles, values and core morals. Now this party does not work in the interest of the nation but for its personal benefits … For the past few years, I could feel that I am the right man in the wrong party. So, today, we announce that I am distancing myself from the AAP and getting close to the public.”Since its inception in 2012 after the Anna Hazare movement, AAP’s political strength has long rested on its ability to differentiate itself from traditional parties through a reformist, anti-establishment narrative.Raghav Chadha’s exit complicates that positioning.By alleging that the party now works for “personal benefits” rather than the national interest, he can change the discourse in the coming months from promise to performance.The whole controversy around the liquor scam proved to be fatal for AAP in the 2025 assembly elections.Chadha’s switch may also alter how voters interpret AAP’s governance and intent in the upcoming Punjab elections.Earlier in the month, in a cryptic post, Chadha had said: “Never outshine the master,” suggesting that his rising national profile and perceived independence had made him a target within his own party.If he had gone to the BJP alone, the AAP leadership would have been able to put the entire blame on his loyalty. The breakaway of 7 Rajya Sabha members together will at least raise a doubt in Kejriwal’s leadership in the party. The leadership of the party has, however, has blamed it on the BJP, alleging the saffron party conduction ‘operation lotus’ the divide the AAP.3. AAP’s internal churnThe exit of Raghav Chadha and six other MPs underscores a deeper pattern within the party — one of recurring internal ruptures that date back to its very origins. Born out of the India Against Corruption movement in 2012, AAP itself emerged from a split, with Anna Hazare and Kiran Bedi opposing the shift to electoral politics.Over the years, the party has seen the steady exit of key figures, from early architects like Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan to prominent faces such as Kumar Vishwas, Ashutosh and Alka Lamba. Just before last Delhi assembly elections, rift between AAP leadership and Swati Maliwal was also out in open. Maliwal also joined Chadha on Friday in quitting the party to join the BJP.What makes the Raghav Chadha episode different is its scale and timing. The simultaneous exit of multiple sitting Rajya Sabha MPs marks one of the most significant setbacks at the parliamentary level. 4. Architect of Punjab victory exits the stageWhile Raghav Chadha’s exit carries symbolic weight, the simultaneous departure of Sandeep Pathak may prove more consequential in structural terms. Widely seen as the architect behind AAP’s Punjab victory, Pathak brought a data-driven, booth-level precision to the party’s campaign machinery. His approach helped AAP convert roughly 42% vote share into a landslide majority of 92 seats of 117 in the 2022 assembly elections, a remarkable strike rate in a multi-cornered contest.Now, at a time when the Bhagwant Mann government is entering a crucial last-leg phase, with the assembly elections to be held next year, the absence of that strategic anchor could create a vacuum.5. National positioning takes a hitThe fallout from Raghav Chadha’s exit extends beyond Punjab into AAP’s standing in national opposition politics. Within the INDIA bloc, the Aam Aadmi Party has positioned itself as a distinct force — often balancing cooperation with competition, especially with the Congress.That positioning now weakens after Chadha’s exit.With its Rajya Sabha strength dropping sharply from 10 to 3, AAP’s ability to project itself as a serious national player takes a direct hit. And in coalition politics, numbers are credibility.This also affects AAP’s leverage in the opposition’s INDIA bloc dynamics. The party has often negotiated from a position of relative strength. That equation had already shifted a blow after last year’s loss in Delhi. Now, as its legislative footprint shrinks, it might get harder for the party to assert itself in seat-sharing talks or strategic decisions.For Chadha, the move resets his trajectory in national politics. Whether it strengthens the Bharatiya Janata Party’s footprint in Punjab or reshapes opposition equations within the INDIA bloc will become clearer in the months ahead.One thing, however, is already evident: this is not just a break-up. It is a moment that could redraw political lines — both in Punjab and beyond.Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh has, for now, said he would seek the disqualification of Raghav Chadha, Ashok Mittal and Sandeep Pathak from the Upper House for joining the BJP.About the AuthorPallaviNews desk journalist, digital, at The Times of India, with a focus on Indian politics. Over a decade of chasing stories, taming headlines and arguing with commas like they’re part of the opposition. Tracks elections, policy pivots, party drama and the fine print of power, where every word can tilt the narrative. Believes good journalism is clarity under pressure, ideally filed before the next breaking alert crashes in. Powered by deadlines, context, sharp edits and a steady supply of strong tea.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAshok Mittal Joins BJP After Replacing Raghav Chadha In RS & ED Raids | WatchSamrat Choudhary, Tejashwi Yadav Clash Over CM Post, Stability & Lalu LegacyHow Raghav Chadha, Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal Exit Triggers AAP CrisisAAP Targets Raghav Chadha & MPs Over Exit, Says they ‘Betrayed The People Of Punjab’Meet The 7 AAP MPs Who Resigned And Joined BJP In Big Political Shock To KejriwalRaghav Chadha Quits AAP, Joins BJP With Six Other MPs | WatchBihar CM Samrat Choudhary Clears Floor Test, NDA Government Proves Majority In AssemblyTamil Nadu Polls See Surge in First-Time Voters, Youth Drive Record TurnoutBJP Declares Yogi Adityanath as CM Face for 2027 UP Assembly ElectionsRSS’ Dattatreya Hosabale In US: “Hindus Not Supremacist, Have Nothing To Apologise For”123PhotostoriesAre you loading your dishwasher the right way? Here’s what actually worksWhy Gen Z is choosing lab-grown diamonds for modern engagement ringsChronic inflammation may be raising your disease risk: Doctor shares 7 foods that help calm it naturallyWhat that tiny hole in your sink is really forA rare moment put Ranthambore National Park back in the spotlight — 5 reasons fans are going now‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ star Anne Hathaway’s most iconic red carpet looksThis everyday travel item often triggers airport bag checks — and you probably packed itVitamin B12 deficiency is more common than you think: Foods you need in your daily diet‘Raja Shivaji’, ‘Chand Mera Dil’, ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh Do’: Bollywood releases slated for May 2026’The Devil Wears Prada 2′ cast then vs now: How Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway and more have evolved 20 years after the original123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

NEW DELHI: Just days before delivering his biggest political move yet, Raghav Chadha struck a cinematic note, invoking a Bollywood line from Dhurandhar: “ghayal hoon, isliye ghatak hoon” (I am wounded, therefore I am dangerous).In hindsight, the dialogue and its metaphor now read very differently. The “wounded” leader Raghav Chadha has not just walked away from Arvind Kejriwal’s AAP — he has crossed the political ‘border’ by joining the BJP. And in doing so, he may have inflicted the deepest wound yet on the AAP, proving to be the real lethal force for the party. More than a high-profile defection, Chadha’s move, along with a clutch of Rajya Sabha members, strikes at the party’s numbers, narrative, and national positioning. For AAP, the aftershocks are likely to be felt most sharply in Punjab, the only state where it holds full power and the foundation of its national ambitions. For the past few years, I could feel that I am the right man in the wrong party.- Raghav ChadhaHere are 5 reasons why Raghav Chadha’s exit may hit AAP where it hurts the most:1. Cost of this breakup in numbersThe exit of Raghav Chadha from the AAP is not just a political setback for the party; it delivers a sharp blow in pure numerical terms in Parliament.Raghav Chadha exited the party along with 6 other Rajya Sabha members. AAP’s strength has effectively shrunk from 10 MPs to just 3, following the reported shift of seven members. “We have decided that we, the 2/3rd members belonging to the AAP in Rajya Sabha, exercise the provisions of the Constitution of India and merge ourselves with the BJP,” Raghav Chadha said at a press conference, with Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal on stage.”There are 10 AAP MPs in the Rajya Sabha, more than 2/3rd of them are with us in this. They have signed, and this morning we submitted the signed letter and documents to the Rajya Sabha Chairman…three of them are here before you. Besides us, there are Harbhajan Singh, Rajinder Gupta, Vikramjit Singh Sahney and Swati Maliwal,” he said.Crossing the two-thirds mark allows the group to qualify as a merger under anti-defection rules, meaning the loss is both instant and irreversible. For AAP, that translates into a 70% drop in Upper House strength, severely limiting its ability to intervene in debates, secure committee positions, and shape national discourse.The setback is amplified by the fact that AAP’s Rajya Sabha presence is largely rooted in Punjab — its only full-state power base. A weakened parliamentary bench reduces the party’s ability to project Punjab’s interests at the national level, even as it continues to govern the state.2. ‘New politics’ brand takes credibility hitWhile severing ties with the AAP, Raghav Chadha said: “The AAP, which I nurtured with my blood and sweat, and gave 15 years of my youth to, has deviated from its principles, values and core morals. Now this party does not work in the interest of the nation but for its personal benefits … For the past few years, I could feel that I am the right man in the wrong party. So, today, we announce that I am distancing myself from the AAP and getting close to the public.”Since its inception in 2012 after the Anna Hazare movement, AAP’s political strength has long rested on its ability to differentiate itself from traditional parties through a reformist, anti-establishment narrative.Raghav Chadha’s exit complicates that positioning.By alleging that the party now works for “personal benefits” rather than the national interest, he can change the discourse in the coming months from promise to performance.The whole controversy around the liquor scam proved to be fatal for AAP in the 2025 assembly elections.Chadha’s switch may also alter how voters interpret AAP’s governance and intent in the upcoming Punjab elections.Earlier in the month, in a cryptic post, Chadha had said: “Never outshine the master,” suggesting that his rising national profile and perceived independence had made him a target within his own party.If he had gone to the BJP alone, the AAP leadership would have been able to put the entire blame on his loyalty. The breakaway of 7 Rajya Sabha members together will at least raise a doubt in Kejriwal’s leadership in the party. The leadership of the party has, however, has blamed it on the BJP, alleging the saffron party conduction ‘operation lotus’ the divide the AAP.3. AAP’s internal churnThe exit of Raghav Chadha and six other MPs underscores a deeper pattern within the party — one of recurring internal ruptures that date back to its very origins. Born out of the India Against Corruption movement in 2012, AAP itself emerged from a split, with Anna Hazare and Kiran Bedi opposing the shift to electoral politics.Over the years, the party has seen the steady exit of key figures, from early architects like Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan to prominent faces such as Kumar Vishwas, Ashutosh and Alka Lamba. Just before last Delhi assembly elections, rift between AAP leadership and Swati Maliwal was also out in open. Maliwal also joined Chadha on Friday in quitting the party to join the BJP.What makes the Raghav Chadha episode different is its scale and timing. The simultaneous exit of multiple sitting Rajya Sabha MPs marks one of the most significant setbacks at the parliamentary level. 4. Architect of Punjab victory exits the stageWhile Raghav Chadha’s exit carries symbolic weight, the simultaneous departure of Sandeep Pathak may prove more consequential in structural terms. Widely seen as the architect behind AAP’s Punjab victory, Pathak brought a data-driven, booth-level precision to the party’s campaign machinery. His approach helped AAP convert roughly 42% vote share into a landslide majority of 92 seats of 117 in the 2022 assembly elections, a remarkable strike rate in a multi-cornered contest.Now, at a time when the Bhagwant Mann government is entering a crucial last-leg phase, with the assembly elections to be held next year, the absence of that strategic anchor could create a vacuum.5. National positioning takes a hitThe fallout from Raghav Chadha’s exit extends beyond Punjab into AAP’s standing in national opposition politics. Within the INDIA bloc, the Aam Aadmi Party has positioned itself as a distinct force — often balancing cooperation with competition, especially with the Congress.That positioning now weakens after Chadha’s exit.With its Rajya Sabha strength dropping sharply from 10 to 3, AAP’s ability to project itself as a serious national player takes a direct hit. And in coalition politics, numbers are credibility.This also affects AAP’s leverage in the opposition’s INDIA bloc dynamics. The party has often negotiated from a position of relative strength. That equation had already shifted a blow after last year’s loss in Delhi. Now, as its legislative footprint shrinks, it might get harder for the party to assert itself in seat-sharing talks or strategic decisions.For Chadha, the move resets his trajectory in national politics. Whether it strengthens the Bharatiya Janata Party’s footprint in Punjab or reshapes opposition equations within the INDIA bloc will become clearer in the months ahead.One thing, however, is already evident: this is not just a break-up. It is a moment that could redraw political lines — both in Punjab and beyond.Aam Aadmi Party leader Sanjay Singh has, for now, said he would seek the disqualification of Raghav Chadha, Ashok Mittal and Sandeep Pathak from the Upper House for joining the BJP.About the AuthorPallaviNews desk journalist, digital, at The Times of India, with a focus on Indian politics. Over a decade of chasing stories, taming headlines and arguing with commas like they’re part of the opposition. Tracks elections, policy pivots, party drama and the fine print of power, where every word can tilt the narrative. Believes good journalism is clarity under pressure, ideally filed before the next breaking alert crashes in. Powered by deadlines, context, sharp edits and a steady supply of strong tea.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosAshok Mittal Joins BJP After Replacing Raghav Chadha In RS & ED Raids | WatchSamrat Choudhary, Tejashwi Yadav Clash Over CM Post, Stability & Lalu LegacyHow Raghav Chadha, Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal Exit Triggers AAP CrisisAAP Targets Raghav Chadha & MPs Over Exit, Says they ‘Betrayed The People Of Punjab’Meet The 7 AAP MPs Who Resigned And Joined BJP In Big Political Shock To KejriwalRaghav Chadha Quits AAP, Joins BJP With Six Other MPs | WatchBihar CM Samrat Choudhary Clears Floor Test, NDA Government Proves Majority In AssemblyTamil Nadu Polls See Surge in First-Time Voters, Youth Drive Record TurnoutBJP Declares Yogi Adityanath as CM Face for 2027 UP Assembly ElectionsRSS’ Dattatreya Hosabale In US: “Hindus Not Supremacist, Have Nothing To Apologise For”123PhotostoriesAre you loading your dishwasher the right way? Here’s what actually worksWhy Gen Z is choosing lab-grown diamonds for modern engagement ringsChronic inflammation may be raising your disease risk: Doctor shares 7 foods that help calm it naturallyWhat that tiny hole in your sink is really forA rare moment put Ranthambore National Park back in the spotlight — 5 reasons fans are going now‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ star Anne Hathaway’s most iconic red carpet looksThis everyday travel item often triggers airport bag checks — and you probably packed itVitamin B12 deficiency is more common than you think: Foods you need in your daily diet‘Raja Shivaji’, ‘Chand Mera Dil’, ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh Do’: Bollywood releases slated for May 2026’The Devil Wears Prada 2′ cast then vs now: How Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway and more have evolved 20 years after the original123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

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NEW DELHI: Sidelined leader Raghav Chadha, once a rising star of the Aam Aadmi Party, changed the entire game for the party on Friday when he walked out along with six other Rajya Sabha members, exploding the internal rift into a full-blown rupture. The rift became public after the close aide of AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal was removed from the Rajya Sabha deputy leader position and charged with engaging in “soft PR” earlier this month.Chadha, one of the youngest members of the Rajya Sabha, had reportedly been at odds with the party’s top leadership for some time now. The growing rift became more evident as he remained absent during some of the party’s most crucial moments, including the recent court relief granted to Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia. Watch How Raghav Chadha, Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal Exit Triggers AAP CrisisAddressing a press conference on Friday, alongside party colleagues Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal, Chadha made his most decisive move yet. But the real blow lies in the numbers as six other AAP MPs, taking the tally to seven out of the party’s total 10 in the Rajya Sabha have sided with Chadha.”We have decided that we, the two-thirds members belonging to the AAP in Rajya Sabha, exercise the provisions of the Constitution of India and merge ourselves with the BJP,” he said.Explaining his departure, Chadha added, “The AAP, which I nurtured with my blood and sweat, and gave 15 years of my youth to, has deviated from its principles, values and core morals. Now this party does not work in the interest of the nation but for its personal benefits. For the past few years, I could feel that I am the right man in the wrong party. So, today, we announce that I am distancing myself from the AAP and getting close to the public.”Chadha did not just leave AAP, he also made it clear where he now stood. He praised the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi claiming that under his leadership “the government has taken several strong decisions that earlier leaders were perhaps hesitant to take.”At the same time, he attempted to reassure supporters that his political priorities would remain unchanged. “To those who felt disappointed that, as a Member of Parliament, I might not be able to raise the issues of ordinary citizens because my own party had silenced my voice, I want to assure them not to worry. I will continue to raise all your issues with the same commitment, enthusiasm, and energy,” he said.Chadha’s exit, coupled with his sharp attack on the party leadership, signals more than just a personal fallout. His decision to part ways and align with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has now pushed the party into an existential moment. The TimelineWhat led to the escalation in AAPChadha, who was once dubbed the architect of AAP’s 2022 win in Punjab was seen as one of AAP’s most articulate and influential young leaders. However, that proximity to power gradually turned into distance after the visible cracks began to emerge quietly, before becoming impossible to ignore.The tipping point came on April 2, when the AAP leadership removed Chadha as its deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha and replaced him with Ashok Mittal.What made the move especially stinging was the party’s formal request that Chadha be denied speaking time from its allotted quota in the Rajya Sabha.The internal rift escalated sharply after the decision communicated to the Rajya Sabha secretariat was reflected on the official website the same day. It signalled a clear breakdown in ties between Chadha and the party leadership led by Arvind Kejriwal.’Silenced, not defeated’The flashpoint came when Raghav Chadha publicly questioned his removal, setting off a sharp and coordinated counterattack from within the party.In a series of video messages and statements, he framed the action not just as a demotion, but as an attempt to silence him. “Silenced, not defeated,” he said in a message addressed to the “aam aadmi,” questioning whether raising public issues in Parliament had become a punishable offence within his own party.He escalated his tone further, warning, “Do not take my silence as my defeat. I am like that river which can turn into a flood when the time comes.””Is raising public issues a crime? Have I made a mistake? Have I done something wrong? Whenever I talk, I only talk about problems faced by common people. Why would someone stop me from speaking and raising issues of public interest,” he said in the video.The video message came hours after Chadha posted a montage on social media highlighting issues he said he had raised in his capacity as deputy leader of the party in the House. It mentioned concerns such as the tax burden on the middle class, the data expiry problem, paternity leave as a right in India, and excess baggage charges at airports. War of narrativesWithin hours of Chadha’s broadside, AAP leaders hit back in unison, branding their colleague “afraid and compromised” and accusing him of deviating from the party’s ideological line.Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh accused Chadha of staying silent on key political issues. “On all these issues, Raghav Chadha keeps silent. I would like to tell him that we are foot soldiers of Arvind Kejriwal who has taught us to fearlessly fight against Modi,” he said.Former Delhi chief minister Atishi also questioned Chadha’s absence during critical moments, particularly during Kejriwal’s arrest in March 2024. “We defended you then…But today, even I want to ask that when Kejriwal was arrested, were you scared of the BJP and therefore ran away to London out of fear?” she said.Senior party leaders alleged that Chadha had deviated from the party line, pointing to his refusal to sign a notice seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and his failure to join opposition walkouts in Parliament.Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann defended the party’s decision, calling it routine. “This is regular party functioning. It is his call on what statement he wants to make,” Mann said, adding, “Those who break party lines should be subjected to action.”He further emphasised party discipline, saying, “In Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha, the opposition takes many decisions. Any member who goes against the party line, it goes against the party whip. Hence, if you go against the whip, you are bound to face action.”Taking a sharper tone, Mann said Chadha appeared “compromised” and questioned his choice of issues in Parliament. “If the party gives a line to raise specific issues… but someone raises issues of samosas at airports or pizza delivery time, won’t it raise doubts that he is talking from a different station?” he remarked.AAP leader Anurag Dhanda echoed similar concerns, alleging that Chadha had been hesitant to take on the central government. “The party get little time to speak in Parliament, under which it can either save the nation or call out for ‘making samosas cheap at the airport,'” he said.”We are Kejriwal’s soldiers. Fearlessness is our first identity. If someone fears Modi, will they fight for the country?” Dhanda added, accusing Chadha of avoiding key political issues and refusing to sign the proposal against the Chief Election Commissioner.He further said, “In Gujarat, our hundreds of workers have been arrested by BJP’s police — will the honourable MP say something in the House? In West Bengal, the right to vote is being snatched away… For the past few years, you’ve been scared, Raghav. You hesitate to speak against Modi. You hesitate to speak on the real issues of the country.”Atishi also raised concerns over larger national issues, saying, “Today, our nation is passing through an immense crisis. There is a grave threat to our Constitution… yet you are not raising any questions; why are you seemingly afraid to speak out against it?”As the war of words intensified, AAP leaders openly labelled Chadha as “compromised” and accused him of engaging in “soft PR” instead of taking a strong political stand. The taunt, “Jo Dar Gaya Samjho Mar Gaya” also captured the increasingly bitter tone of the confrontation.What began as an internal reshuffle turned into a full-blown political slugfest, exposing deep fractures within the party, with Chadha positioning himself as a silenced voice of the “aam aadmi,” and the AAP leadership painting him as a leader who strayed from its core political line. A battle far from overChadha categorically denied these allegations in the videos posted, calling them “white lies” and challenging the party to provide evidence.”The first allegation they put against me was that I did not walk out with the opposition. This is a white lie, and I challenge you to give me one example, one incident, where the opposition walked out and I didn’t support them,” he said, adding that, “There are CCTV cameras everywhere in the parliament. Show me footage and it will become clear.”On the issue of the motion against the Chief Election Commissioner, Chadha maintained that no party leader had asked him formally or informally to sign it. He questioned why he was being singled out when several other MPs had also not signed the motion, noting that the opposition had more than enough members to meet the required number of signatures.Further, stepping up his attack, Chadha accused the party leadership of running a “scripted campaign” against him as part of a “coordinated attack.”Taking a cue from the Ranveer Singh starrer ‘Dhurandhar’ movie, Chadha in the video said, “ghayal hoon isiliye ghatak hoon (I am fatal as I am wounded)”. In a detailed video response, Chadha rejected all allegations levelled against him and vowed to expose “every lie.”Responding to claims that he did not participate in opposition walkouts, he said, “I challenge anyone to show even a single instance where the opposition walked out and I did not join them. Parliament has CCTV cameras everywhere, bring out the footage and the truth will be clear.”On the allegation that he refused to sign the impeachment motion against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Chadha said no party leader had asked him to do so.”In fact, several Rajya Sabha MPs from the party themselves did not sign the motion. So why is the blame being placed solely on me? Moreover, such a motion requires 50 signatures in the Rajya Sabha, and that number could easily have been met. So why the noise?” he asked.He also strongly pushed back against the charge of raising “trivial issues” in Parliament.”I did not go to Parliament to shout, create chaos, or break microphones. I went there to raise public issues. I have spoken on GST, income tax, Punjab’s water, Delhi’s air pollution, the condition of government schools, strengthening public healthcare, and problems faced by passengers in Indian Railways. I have even raised issues like menstrual health, which people often hesitate to discuss, along with unemployment and inflation. You can check my four-year parliamentary record — I went there to create impact, not disruption.”The ED angleThe controversy further intensified with Enforcement Directorate (ED) searches linked to Ashok Mittal, who replaced Chadha as deputy leader in Punjab and Haryana under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, covering premises associated with educational institutions.AAP leaders described the action as politically motivated and timed ahead of the Punjab Assembly elections. Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal accused the Centre of using central agencies to prepare ground for upcoming polls, while leaders like Sanjay Singh and Manish Sisodia alleged misuse of institutions by the BJP.The divide widened further on April 15, when senior AAP leaders publicly accused Chadha of betrayal and linked the ED action against Mittal to the internal fallout.The controversy escalated amid reports that Chadha had been granted Z-category security by the Centre, prompting allegations of political collusion from within AAP.Launching a direct attack, Saurabh Bharadwaj alleged a coordinated pattern involving central agencies, political developments and security cover. In a post on X, he said:”BJP Govt toolbox is so so predictable. Raghav Chadha was threatened by ED and he out of fear or greed decided to backstab his party who made him MP or whatever he is today. When Raghav is called out on Social Media, BJP people came out to defend Raghav. On position of Dy Leader, AAP replaced Raghav with Ashok Mittal. Now ED instead of hounding Raghav , goes after Ashok Mittal and raids his home & business. And Centre gives Z+ security to Raghav Chadha. All this appears so much linked to each other. So BJP’s Govt is so desperate that they raided MP Ashok Mittal for Raghav Chadha As per sources, Raghav Chadha is behind ED raid on AAP MP Ashok Mittal.” Inside ParliamentAmid the escalating row, Chadha made a pointed remark in the Rajya Sabha on April 17, taking a subtle dig at the leadership changes within the party.”The leader of the party I belong to is not present in the House. The newly appointed deputy leader of the party I belong to is also not present in the House. I am the recently removed deputy leader, and I am present in the House. Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to speak,” he said.Even outside Parliament, Chadha’s messaging remained sharp and symbolic. On April 7, he shared a cryptic Instagram post featuring the book The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene.”Somebody gifted me a book this week. Funny how timing works. The timing is hard to ignore. I turned to chapter 1 – ‘Never outshine the master’. Some books arrive exactly when they are meant to,” he wrote.The post was widely interpreted as a veiled reference to his fallout with the party leadership.Days later, Chadha fueled further speculation about his political future by responding to a social media post suggesting he might float his own party. His brief replied, “interesting thought”.The Punjab factorThe political backdrop of Punjab also played a crucial role in the unfolding crisis. Chadha was once credited as a key strategist behind AAP’s landslide victory in the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections, where the party won 92 of 117 seats. However, over time, his influence in the state reportedly declined.Tensions emerged between his “Delhi-style” functioning and the state leadership under Bhagwant Mann. Some within the party believed he was acting like a “super CM,” leading to his gradual sidelining from Punjab affairs.With Punjab heading towards another election cycle, internal power dynamics became even more sensitive. For AAP, which has already lost Delhi, Punjab remains its last major political stronghold.Against this backdrop, Chadha’s removal and eventual exit take on even greater significance.Raghav Chadha’s journey within AAP began with his political career working with Arvind Kejriwal during the Delhi Lokpal movement in 2012. He rose rapidly through party ranks, became one of its youngest MPs, and played a significant role in its expansion.The fallout leaves AAP at a critical juncture, as the party must now navigate both internal restructuring and external political challenges, particularly in Punjab.For Chadha, the move represents both a risk and an opportunity shifting from a party built on anti-establishment politics to aligning with the country’s ruling establishment.About the AuthorKanchan YadavKanchan Yadav is a writer at The Times of India, where she covers business, politics, international affairs and social issues. Her reporting also focuses on policy, governance and economic developments, with a close lens on how decisions in corridors of power affect everyday lives and community well-being.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSamrat Choudhary, Tejashwi Yadav Clash Over CM Post, Stability & Lalu LegacyHow Raghav Chadha, Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal Exit Triggers AAP CrisisAAP Targets Raghav Chadha & MPs Over Exit, Says they ‘Betrayed The People Of Punjab’Meet The 7 AAP MPs Who Resigned And Joined BJP In Big Political Shock To KejriwalRaghav Chadha Quits AAP, Joins BJP With Six Other MPs | WatchBihar CM Samrat Choudhary Clears Floor Test, NDA Government Proves Majority In AssemblyTamil Nadu Polls See Surge in First-Time Voters, Youth Drive Record TurnoutBJP Declares Yogi Adityanath as CM Face for 2027 UP Assembly ElectionsRSS’ Dattatreya Hosabale In US: “Hindus Not Supremacist, Have Nothing To Apologise For”“Unfair To Drag Armed Forces”: Gen MM Naravane After Rahul Gandhi Cites Unpublished Memoir In LS123PhotostoriesWhy Gen Z is choosing lab-grown diamonds for modern engagement ringsChronic inflammation may be raising your disease risk: Doctor shares 7 foods that help calm it naturallyWhat that tiny hole in your sink is really forA rare moment put Ranthambore National Park back in the spotlight — 5 reasons fans are going now‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ star Anne Hathaway’s most iconic red carpet looksThis everyday travel item often triggers airport bag checks — and you probably packed itVitamin B12 deficiency is more common than you think: Foods you need in your daily diet‘Raja Shivaji’, ‘Chand Mera Dil’, ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh Do’: Bollywood releases slated for May 2026’The Devil Wears Prada 2′ cast then vs now: How Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway and more have evolved 20 years after the originalIs your Jamdani saree real or fake? Here’s how to tell123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

NEW DELHI: Sidelined leader Raghav Chadha, once a rising star of the Aam Aadmi Party, changed the entire game for the party on Friday when he walked out along with six other Rajya Sabha members, exploding the internal rift into a full-blown rupture. The rift became public after the close aide of AAP supremo Arvind Kejriwal was removed from the Rajya Sabha deputy leader position and charged with engaging in “soft PR” earlier this month.Chadha, one of the youngest members of the Rajya Sabha, had reportedly been at odds with the party’s top leadership for some time now. The growing rift became more evident as he remained absent during some of the party’s most crucial moments, including the recent court relief granted to Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia. Watch How Raghav Chadha, Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal Exit Triggers AAP CrisisAddressing a press conference on Friday, alongside party colleagues Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal, Chadha made his most decisive move yet. But the real blow lies in the numbers as six other AAP MPs, taking the tally to seven out of the party’s total 10 in the Rajya Sabha have sided with Chadha.”We have decided that we, the two-thirds members belonging to the AAP in Rajya Sabha, exercise the provisions of the Constitution of India and merge ourselves with the BJP,” he said.Explaining his departure, Chadha added, “The AAP, which I nurtured with my blood and sweat, and gave 15 years of my youth to, has deviated from its principles, values and core morals. Now this party does not work in the interest of the nation but for its personal benefits. For the past few years, I could feel that I am the right man in the wrong party. So, today, we announce that I am distancing myself from the AAP and getting close to the public.”Chadha did not just leave AAP, he also made it clear where he now stood. He praised the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi claiming that under his leadership “the government has taken several strong decisions that earlier leaders were perhaps hesitant to take.”At the same time, he attempted to reassure supporters that his political priorities would remain unchanged. “To those who felt disappointed that, as a Member of Parliament, I might not be able to raise the issues of ordinary citizens because my own party had silenced my voice, I want to assure them not to worry. I will continue to raise all your issues with the same commitment, enthusiasm, and energy,” he said.Chadha’s exit, coupled with his sharp attack on the party leadership, signals more than just a personal fallout. His decision to part ways and align with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has now pushed the party into an existential moment. The TimelineWhat led to the escalation in AAPChadha, who was once dubbed the architect of AAP’s 2022 win in Punjab was seen as one of AAP’s most articulate and influential young leaders. However, that proximity to power gradually turned into distance after the visible cracks began to emerge quietly, before becoming impossible to ignore.The tipping point came on April 2, when the AAP leadership removed Chadha as its deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha and replaced him with Ashok Mittal.What made the move especially stinging was the party’s formal request that Chadha be denied speaking time from its allotted quota in the Rajya Sabha.The internal rift escalated sharply after the decision communicated to the Rajya Sabha secretariat was reflected on the official website the same day. It signalled a clear breakdown in ties between Chadha and the party leadership led by Arvind Kejriwal.’Silenced, not defeated’The flashpoint came when Raghav Chadha publicly questioned his removal, setting off a sharp and coordinated counterattack from within the party.In a series of video messages and statements, he framed the action not just as a demotion, but as an attempt to silence him. “Silenced, not defeated,” he said in a message addressed to the “aam aadmi,” questioning whether raising public issues in Parliament had become a punishable offence within his own party.He escalated his tone further, warning, “Do not take my silence as my defeat. I am like that river which can turn into a flood when the time comes.””Is raising public issues a crime? Have I made a mistake? Have I done something wrong? Whenever I talk, I only talk about problems faced by common people. Why would someone stop me from speaking and raising issues of public interest,” he said in the video.The video message came hours after Chadha posted a montage on social media highlighting issues he said he had raised in his capacity as deputy leader of the party in the House. It mentioned concerns such as the tax burden on the middle class, the data expiry problem, paternity leave as a right in India, and excess baggage charges at airports. War of narrativesWithin hours of Chadha’s broadside, AAP leaders hit back in unison, branding their colleague “afraid and compromised” and accusing him of deviating from the party’s ideological line.Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh accused Chadha of staying silent on key political issues. “On all these issues, Raghav Chadha keeps silent. I would like to tell him that we are foot soldiers of Arvind Kejriwal who has taught us to fearlessly fight against Modi,” he said.Former Delhi chief minister Atishi also questioned Chadha’s absence during critical moments, particularly during Kejriwal’s arrest in March 2024. “We defended you then…But today, even I want to ask that when Kejriwal was arrested, were you scared of the BJP and therefore ran away to London out of fear?” she said.Senior party leaders alleged that Chadha had deviated from the party line, pointing to his refusal to sign a notice seeking the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar and his failure to join opposition walkouts in Parliament.Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Mann defended the party’s decision, calling it routine. “This is regular party functioning. It is his call on what statement he wants to make,” Mann said, adding, “Those who break party lines should be subjected to action.”He further emphasised party discipline, saying, “In Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha, the opposition takes many decisions. Any member who goes against the party line, it goes against the party whip. Hence, if you go against the whip, you are bound to face action.”Taking a sharper tone, Mann said Chadha appeared “compromised” and questioned his choice of issues in Parliament. “If the party gives a line to raise specific issues… but someone raises issues of samosas at airports or pizza delivery time, won’t it raise doubts that he is talking from a different station?” he remarked.AAP leader Anurag Dhanda echoed similar concerns, alleging that Chadha had been hesitant to take on the central government. “The party get little time to speak in Parliament, under which it can either save the nation or call out for ‘making samosas cheap at the airport,'” he said.”We are Kejriwal’s soldiers. Fearlessness is our first identity. If someone fears Modi, will they fight for the country?” Dhanda added, accusing Chadha of avoiding key political issues and refusing to sign the proposal against the Chief Election Commissioner.He further said, “In Gujarat, our hundreds of workers have been arrested by BJP’s police — will the honourable MP say something in the House? In West Bengal, the right to vote is being snatched away… For the past few years, you’ve been scared, Raghav. You hesitate to speak against Modi. You hesitate to speak on the real issues of the country.”Atishi also raised concerns over larger national issues, saying, “Today, our nation is passing through an immense crisis. There is a grave threat to our Constitution… yet you are not raising any questions; why are you seemingly afraid to speak out against it?”As the war of words intensified, AAP leaders openly labelled Chadha as “compromised” and accused him of engaging in “soft PR” instead of taking a strong political stand. The taunt, “Jo Dar Gaya Samjho Mar Gaya” also captured the increasingly bitter tone of the confrontation.What began as an internal reshuffle turned into a full-blown political slugfest, exposing deep fractures within the party, with Chadha positioning himself as a silenced voice of the “aam aadmi,” and the AAP leadership painting him as a leader who strayed from its core political line. A battle far from overChadha categorically denied these allegations in the videos posted, calling them “white lies” and challenging the party to provide evidence.”The first allegation they put against me was that I did not walk out with the opposition. This is a white lie, and I challenge you to give me one example, one incident, where the opposition walked out and I didn’t support them,” he said, adding that, “There are CCTV cameras everywhere in the parliament. Show me footage and it will become clear.”On the issue of the motion against the Chief Election Commissioner, Chadha maintained that no party leader had asked him formally or informally to sign it. He questioned why he was being singled out when several other MPs had also not signed the motion, noting that the opposition had more than enough members to meet the required number of signatures.Further, stepping up his attack, Chadha accused the party leadership of running a “scripted campaign” against him as part of a “coordinated attack.”Taking a cue from the Ranveer Singh starrer ‘Dhurandhar’ movie, Chadha in the video said, “ghayal hoon isiliye ghatak hoon (I am fatal as I am wounded)”. In a detailed video response, Chadha rejected all allegations levelled against him and vowed to expose “every lie.”Responding to claims that he did not participate in opposition walkouts, he said, “I challenge anyone to show even a single instance where the opposition walked out and I did not join them. Parliament has CCTV cameras everywhere, bring out the footage and the truth will be clear.”On the allegation that he refused to sign the impeachment motion against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, Chadha said no party leader had asked him to do so.”In fact, several Rajya Sabha MPs from the party themselves did not sign the motion. So why is the blame being placed solely on me? Moreover, such a motion requires 50 signatures in the Rajya Sabha, and that number could easily have been met. So why the noise?” he asked.He also strongly pushed back against the charge of raising “trivial issues” in Parliament.”I did not go to Parliament to shout, create chaos, or break microphones. I went there to raise public issues. I have spoken on GST, income tax, Punjab’s water, Delhi’s air pollution, the condition of government schools, strengthening public healthcare, and problems faced by passengers in Indian Railways. I have even raised issues like menstrual health, which people often hesitate to discuss, along with unemployment and inflation. You can check my four-year parliamentary record — I went there to create impact, not disruption.”The ED angleThe controversy further intensified with Enforcement Directorate (ED) searches linked to Ashok Mittal, who replaced Chadha as deputy leader in Punjab and Haryana under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, covering premises associated with educational institutions.AAP leaders described the action as politically motivated and timed ahead of the Punjab Assembly elections. Party convenor Arvind Kejriwal accused the Centre of using central agencies to prepare ground for upcoming polls, while leaders like Sanjay Singh and Manish Sisodia alleged misuse of institutions by the BJP.The divide widened further on April 15, when senior AAP leaders publicly accused Chadha of betrayal and linked the ED action against Mittal to the internal fallout.The controversy escalated amid reports that Chadha had been granted Z-category security by the Centre, prompting allegations of political collusion from within AAP.Launching a direct attack, Saurabh Bharadwaj alleged a coordinated pattern involving central agencies, political developments and security cover. In a post on X, he said:”BJP Govt toolbox is so so predictable. Raghav Chadha was threatened by ED and he out of fear or greed decided to backstab his party who made him MP or whatever he is today. When Raghav is called out on Social Media, BJP people came out to defend Raghav. On position of Dy Leader, AAP replaced Raghav with Ashok Mittal. Now ED instead of hounding Raghav , goes after Ashok Mittal and raids his home & business. And Centre gives Z+ security to Raghav Chadha. All this appears so much linked to each other. So BJP’s Govt is so desperate that they raided MP Ashok Mittal for Raghav Chadha As per sources, Raghav Chadha is behind ED raid on AAP MP Ashok Mittal.” Inside ParliamentAmid the escalating row, Chadha made a pointed remark in the Rajya Sabha on April 17, taking a subtle dig at the leadership changes within the party.”The leader of the party I belong to is not present in the House. The newly appointed deputy leader of the party I belong to is also not present in the House. I am the recently removed deputy leader, and I am present in the House. Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to speak,” he said.Even outside Parliament, Chadha’s messaging remained sharp and symbolic. On April 7, he shared a cryptic Instagram post featuring the book The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene.”Somebody gifted me a book this week. Funny how timing works. The timing is hard to ignore. I turned to chapter 1 – ‘Never outshine the master’. Some books arrive exactly when they are meant to,” he wrote.The post was widely interpreted as a veiled reference to his fallout with the party leadership.Days later, Chadha fueled further speculation about his political future by responding to a social media post suggesting he might float his own party. His brief replied, “interesting thought”.The Punjab factorThe political backdrop of Punjab also played a crucial role in the unfolding crisis. Chadha was once credited as a key strategist behind AAP’s landslide victory in the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections, where the party won 92 of 117 seats. However, over time, his influence in the state reportedly declined.Tensions emerged between his “Delhi-style” functioning and the state leadership under Bhagwant Mann. Some within the party believed he was acting like a “super CM,” leading to his gradual sidelining from Punjab affairs.With Punjab heading towards another election cycle, internal power dynamics became even more sensitive. For AAP, which has already lost Delhi, Punjab remains its last major political stronghold.Against this backdrop, Chadha’s removal and eventual exit take on even greater significance.Raghav Chadha’s journey within AAP began with his political career working with Arvind Kejriwal during the Delhi Lokpal movement in 2012. He rose rapidly through party ranks, became one of its youngest MPs, and played a significant role in its expansion.The fallout leaves AAP at a critical juncture, as the party must now navigate both internal restructuring and external political challenges, particularly in Punjab.For Chadha, the move represents both a risk and an opportunity shifting from a party built on anti-establishment politics to aligning with the country’s ruling establishment.About the AuthorKanchan YadavKanchan Yadav is a writer at The Times of India, where she covers business, politics, international affairs and social issues. Her reporting also focuses on policy, governance and economic developments, with a close lens on how decisions in corridors of power affect everyday lives and community well-being.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosSamrat Choudhary, Tejashwi Yadav Clash Over CM Post, Stability & Lalu LegacyHow Raghav Chadha, Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal Exit Triggers AAP CrisisAAP Targets Raghav Chadha & MPs Over Exit, Says they ‘Betrayed The People Of Punjab’Meet The 7 AAP MPs Who Resigned And Joined BJP In Big Political Shock To KejriwalRaghav Chadha Quits AAP, Joins BJP With Six Other MPs | WatchBihar CM Samrat Choudhary Clears Floor Test, NDA Government Proves Majority In AssemblyTamil Nadu Polls See Surge in First-Time Voters, Youth Drive Record TurnoutBJP Declares Yogi Adityanath as CM Face for 2027 UP Assembly ElectionsRSS’ Dattatreya Hosabale In US: “Hindus Not Supremacist, Have Nothing To Apologise For”“Unfair To Drag Armed Forces”: Gen MM Naravane After Rahul Gandhi Cites Unpublished Memoir In LS123PhotostoriesWhy Gen Z is choosing lab-grown diamonds for modern engagement ringsChronic inflammation may be raising your disease risk: Doctor shares 7 foods that help calm it naturallyWhat that tiny hole in your sink is really forA rare moment put Ranthambore National Park back in the spotlight — 5 reasons fans are going now‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ star Anne Hathaway’s most iconic red carpet looksThis everyday travel item often triggers airport bag checks — and you probably packed itVitamin B12 deficiency is more common than you think: Foods you need in your daily diet‘Raja Shivaji’, ‘Chand Mera Dil’, ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh Do’: Bollywood releases slated for May 2026’The Devil Wears Prada 2′ cast then vs now: How Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway and more have evolved 20 years after the originalIs your Jamdani saree real or fake? 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IIT Madras (Image/PTI) NEW DELHI: Indian Institute of Technology Madras-led digital learning platform SWAYAM Plus has launched three new beginner-friendly artificial intelligence (AI) courses under its ‘AI for All’ campaign, expanding access to foundational AI skills as the platform completes two years of operations.The courses — AI for Aspiring Engineers, AI for Administrators, and Prompt Engineering — have been developed in partnership with IITM Pravartak. They are designed for learners with no prior coding or AI background and focus on practical, real-world applications across domains.The courses were launched by IIT-M director V Kamakoti on Friday marking the platform’s second anniversary which brought together representatives from government, industry, academia and the learner community, and also recognised key partners and top-performing learners.Registrations for all three courses are currently open on the SWAYAM Plus portal, with the last date set as May 10, 2026.Among the offerings, AI for Aspiring Engineers aims to equip students transitioning from school to engineering with foundational knowledge of Python, AI and machine learning using engineering datasets. The course is priced at Rs 500 plus GST.AI for Administrators is targeted at management professionals, focusing on decision-making using AI, machine learning and generative AI tools. It is priced at Rs 100 plus GST.The Prompt Engineering course introduces learners to interacting effectively with AI systems to generate accurate outputs, and is also priced at Rs 100 plus GST.Highlighting the platform’s growth, SWAYAM Plus coordinator and IIT-M dean (planning) R Sarathi said the initiative, backed by the ministry of education, has expanded rapidly since its launch.“SWAYAM Plus… has successfully completed two years. Since its inception, the platform has grown significantly, now hosting over 500 online courses across more than 15 sectors… To date, over 5.50 lakh learners have registered,” he said.The ‘AI for All’ campaign, launched in May 2025, has already seen strong uptake. The first batch of five introductory AI courses drew over 42,000 registrations, while a second batch, which included a course for educators, attracted more than 50,000 learners.The platform continues to focus on employment-oriented digital learning aligned with national frameworks, with select courses offering credit recognition and academic validation by IIT Madras.About the AuthorManash Pratim GohainManash Pratim Gohain is a seasoned journalist with over two decades at The Times of India, where he has built a rich body of work spanning education policy, politics, and governance. Renowned for his incisive coverage of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, accreditation reforms, and skilling initiatives, he has also reported on student politics, urban policy, and social movements. His political reportage—both reflective and news-driven—adds depth to his writing, bridging policy with public impact. Through his 2,500 articles and related outlets, he has emerged as a trusted voice in national discourse, particularly in linking education reform to broader societal change.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosHow Raghav Chadha, Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal Exit Triggers AAP CrisisAAP Targets Raghav Chadha & MPs Over Exit, Says they ‘Betrayed The People Of Punjab’Meet The 7 AAP MPs Who Resigned And Joined BJP In Big Political Shock To KejriwalRaghav Chadha Quits AAP, Joins BJP With Six Other MPs | WatchBihar CM Samrat Choudhary Clears Floor Test, NDA Government Proves Majority In AssemblyTamil Nadu Polls See Surge in First-Time Voters, Youth Drive Record TurnoutBJP Declares Yogi Adityanath as CM Face for 2027 UP Assembly ElectionsRSS’ Dattatreya Hosabale In US: “Hindus Not Supremacist, Have Nothing To Apologise For”“Unfair To Drag Armed Forces”: Gen MM Naravane After Rahul Gandhi Cites Unpublished Memoir In LSIndia Urges Citizens Not To Travel To Iran, Asks Nationals To Leave Amid Ongoing Tensions123PhotostoriesA rare moment put Ranthambore National Park back in the spotlight — 5 reasons fans are going now‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ star Anne Hathaway’s most iconic red carpet looksThis everyday travel item often triggers airport bag checks — and you probably packed it5 game-changing rituals that can save your relationshipVitamin B12 deficiency is more common than you think: Foods you need in your daily diet‘Raja Shivaji’, ‘Chand Mera Dil’, ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh Do’: Bollywood releases slated for May 2026’The Devil Wears Prada 2′ cast then vs now: How Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway and more have evolved 20 years after the originalIs your Jamdani saree real or fake? Here’s how to tellShe Googled him… then married him! Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha’s sweetest love storyHow Rs 7 lakh gaming debt allegedly led to brutal rape-murder in South Delhi home123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

IIT Madras (Image/PTI) NEW DELHI: Indian Institute of Technology Madras-led digital learning platform SWAYAM Plus has launched three new beginner-friendly artificial intelligence (AI) courses under its ‘AI for All’ campaign, expanding access to foundational AI skills as the platform completes two years of operations.The courses — AI for Aspiring Engineers, AI for Administrators, and Prompt Engineering — have been developed in partnership with IITM Pravartak. They are designed for learners with no prior coding or AI background and focus on practical, real-world applications across domains.The courses were launched by IIT-M director V Kamakoti on Friday marking the platform’s second anniversary which brought together representatives from government, industry, academia and the learner community, and also recognised key partners and top-performing learners.Registrations for all three courses are currently open on the SWAYAM Plus portal, with the last date set as May 10, 2026.Among the offerings, AI for Aspiring Engineers aims to equip students transitioning from school to engineering with foundational knowledge of Python, AI and machine learning using engineering datasets. The course is priced at Rs 500 plus GST.AI for Administrators is targeted at management professionals, focusing on decision-making using AI, machine learning and generative AI tools. It is priced at Rs 100 plus GST.The Prompt Engineering course introduces learners to interacting effectively with AI systems to generate accurate outputs, and is also priced at Rs 100 plus GST.Highlighting the platform’s growth, SWAYAM Plus coordinator and IIT-M dean (planning) R Sarathi said the initiative, backed by the ministry of education, has expanded rapidly since its launch.“SWAYAM Plus… has successfully completed two years. Since its inception, the platform has grown significantly, now hosting over 500 online courses across more than 15 sectors… To date, over 5.50 lakh learners have registered,” he said.The ‘AI for All’ campaign, launched in May 2025, has already seen strong uptake. The first batch of five introductory AI courses drew over 42,000 registrations, while a second batch, which included a course for educators, attracted more than 50,000 learners.The platform continues to focus on employment-oriented digital learning aligned with national frameworks, with select courses offering credit recognition and academic validation by IIT Madras.About the AuthorManash Pratim GohainManash Pratim Gohain is a seasoned journalist with over two decades at The Times of India, where he has built a rich body of work spanning education policy, politics, and governance. Renowned for his incisive coverage of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, accreditation reforms, and skilling initiatives, he has also reported on student politics, urban policy, and social movements. His political reportage—both reflective and news-driven—adds depth to his writing, bridging policy with public impact. Through his 2,500 articles and related outlets, he has emerged as a trusted voice in national discourse, particularly in linking education reform to broader societal change.Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosHow Raghav Chadha, Sandeep Pathak, Ashok Mittal Exit Triggers AAP CrisisAAP Targets Raghav Chadha & MPs Over Exit, Says they ‘Betrayed The People Of Punjab’Meet The 7 AAP MPs Who Resigned And Joined BJP In Big Political Shock To KejriwalRaghav Chadha Quits AAP, Joins BJP With Six Other MPs | WatchBihar CM Samrat Choudhary Clears Floor Test, NDA Government Proves Majority In AssemblyTamil Nadu Polls See Surge in First-Time Voters, Youth Drive Record TurnoutBJP Declares Yogi Adityanath as CM Face for 2027 UP Assembly ElectionsRSS’ Dattatreya Hosabale In US: “Hindus Not Supremacist, Have Nothing To Apologise For”“Unfair To Drag Armed Forces”: Gen MM Naravane After Rahul Gandhi Cites Unpublished Memoir In LSIndia Urges Citizens Not To Travel To Iran, Asks Nationals To Leave Amid Ongoing Tensions123PhotostoriesA rare moment put Ranthambore National Park back in the spotlight — 5 reasons fans are going now‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ star Anne Hathaway’s most iconic red carpet looksThis everyday travel item often triggers airport bag checks — and you probably packed it5 game-changing rituals that can save your relationshipVitamin B12 deficiency is more common than you think: Foods you need in your daily diet‘Raja Shivaji’, ‘Chand Mera Dil’, ‘Pati Patni Aur Woh Do’: Bollywood releases slated for May 2026’The Devil Wears Prada 2′ cast then vs now: How Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway and more have evolved 20 years after the originalIs your Jamdani saree real or fake? Here’s how to tellShe Googled him… then married him! Parineeti Chopra and Raghav Chadha’s sweetest love storyHow Rs 7 lakh gaming debt allegedly led to brutal rape-murder in South Delhi home123Hot PicksTamil Nadu ElectionWest Bengal voter turnoutAssembly Election 2026Mamata BanerjeeTamil Nadu voter turnoutAmit ShahPM ModiTop TrendingRaghav Chadha Joins BJPTamil Nadu electionAP SSC Class 10 resultsRRB opens qualificationAIIMS B.Sc. coursesJac Class 12 ResultPatrick MahomesBengal PollsNirmala SitharamanIPL Orange Cap

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