- Reports suggest up to 63 Punjab MLAs are backing Raghav Chadha
- Seven AAP Rajya Sabha MPs resign and join BJP, reducing strength from 10 to 3
- Crisis raises serious questions over stability of Bhagwant Mann government
New Delhi: The AAP Punjab crisis 2026 has intensified dramatically, with reports of a large-scale internal rebellion threatening the party’s stability in the state. Sources indicate that several MLAs are now in touch with Raghav Chadha, raising the possibility of a major political shift.
With the Punjab Assembly comprising 117 seats, even partial realignment could destabilize the government led by Bhagwant Mann.
AAP Punjab Crisis 2026: MLAs Rally Behind Raghav Chadha
Reports suggest that as many as 63 MLAs could be backing Raghav Chadha, a figure that, if accurate, signals a serious internal fracture.
Earlier, around 15 to 18 MLAs were reportedly dissatisfied with party leadership. The sharp jump in numbers points to a rapidly escalating crisis rather than isolated dissent.
If Chadha consolidates further support, it could trigger a leadership challenge within the Punjab unit, potentially reshaping the party’s power structure.
Leadership Challenge Looms Over Bhagwant Mann Government
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had already attempted damage control by holding a closed-door meeting with MLAs and ministers on April 16 in Jalandhar.
He reportedly warned against internal dissent, signaling that the leadership was aware of growing unrest.
However, the latest developments suggest that internal tensions have not been resolved and may now be entering a decisive phase.
Mass Rajya Sabha Defections Deliver Major Blow
The crisis deepened after seven AAP Rajya Sabha MPs resigned on April 24, 2026, and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party.
The leaders include:
- Raghav Chadha
- Ashok Mittal
- Sandeep Pathak
- Harbhajan Singh
- Vikram Sahney
- Swati Maliwal
- Rajendra Gupta
This mass exit reduced AAP’s strength in the Rajya Sabha from 10 to just 3 members, significantly weakening its national presence.
Why This Crisis Erupted Now
The immediate trigger appears to be internal power struggles. Raghav Chadha was recently removed as deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha, which reportedly widened rifts within the party.
The defections suggest deeper dissatisfaction, possibly linked to leadership decisions, internal democracy concerns, and political positioning ahead of future elections.
There are also allegations from AAP leaders that the BJP is actively encouraging defections to weaken the party, especially in Punjab.
Second-Order Impact on Punjab Politics
If the reported MLA support translates into action, Punjab could witness a significant political realignment.
A leadership change or split within AAP could alter governance priorities and create instability in the short term.
For the BJP, these developments could open new opportunities to expand influence in Punjab, where it has traditionally faced challenges.
What Happens Next in AAP Punjab
The situation remains fluid. Much depends on whether the reported MLA backing turns into a formal shift or remains behind-the-scenes pressure.
If numbers move beyond speculation, Punjab could be heading toward one of its most significant political shake-ups in recent years.
For now, the AAP Punjab crisis 2026 is no longer just internal dissent, it is a full-scale power struggle with potential national implications.
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