A day after suffering a major political setback, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is now reportedly grappling with a deeper internal rebellion in Punjab, raising serious concerns about the stability of its government in the state.
According to sources, several party MLAs are believed to be in touch with former AAP leader Raghav Chadha, signaling a potential shift in political loyalties. Reports suggest that as many as 63 MLAs in the 117-member Punjab Assembly may be backing Chadha, a development that could significantly alter the state’s political landscape if it materialises.
The numbers are particularly crucial in a state assembly of 117 seats, where any major realignment can directly impact the survival of the government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. A strong show of support for Chadha could potentially trigger a leadership challenge within the party, intensifying the crisis for AAP’s Punjab unit.
Political observers note that if Chadha succeeds in consolidating further support, he could emerge as a possible chief ministerial face in the state. While there has been no official confirmation regarding such a move, the speculation alone has added to the uncertainty within the party ranks.
The current unrest appears to be an escalation of simmering discontent within AAP’s Punjab unit. Earlier reports had indicated that around 15 to 18 MLAs were dissatisfied with the party leadership and were exploring options, including outreach to other political outfits.
In response to the growing dissent, Chief Minister Mann had convened a closed-door meeting with MLAs and ministers in Jalandhar on April 16. During the meeting, he is believed to have issued a stern warning against internal rebellion, urging party members to maintain unity.
As the situation unfolds, AAP faces one of its most significant internal challenges in Punjab since coming to power. Whether the party leadership can contain the rebellion or whether the dissenting voices coalesce into a full-fledged political shift remains to be seen.
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