BJP MP Raghav Chadha’s meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday has triggered political interest in Punjab, with the former AAP leader describing the interaction as “a morning to cherish”. The meeting comes months ahead of the Punjab Assembly elections and a day after Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) chief Sukhbir Singh Badal met the Prime Minister.
Chadha, who rebelled against the AAP and joined the BJP along with six other MPs earlier this year, did not disclose details of his conversation with Modi. However, he described the meeting as an “enriching interaction”.
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“Had the privilege of meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A detailed and enriching interaction. Deeply grateful for his generous time and for the opportunity to benefit from his insights and guidance,” Chadha said.
A report in The Tribune said the prevailing situation in Punjab was among the issues discussed.
Why Did Raghav Chadha Meet PM Modi?
The meeting comes as the BJP has stepped up its political activity in Punjab ahead of the Assembly elections. Chadha, who represents Punjab in the Rajya Sabha and has ancestral roots in Jalandhar, is expected to take on a prominent and active role for the BJP in the state.
Chadha had been associated with the AAP since its inception before triggering a major political shake-up in April. He and six other MPs joined the BJP, with six of the seven coming from Punjab.
Once described as the “de facto Chief Minister” of Punjab, Chadha’s departure was a significant setback for the AAP in the only state where it currently holds power.
Although Chadha did not contest the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections, he played a behind-the-scenes role as a strategist and helped the AAP secure a historic victory in the state despite competition from the SAD, BJP and Congress.
With Chadha now in the BJP, he is likely to receive an active role in the poll-bound state.
His understanding of Punjab’s electoral dynamics, along with his urban appeal, could help the BJP strengthen its presence in cities including Amritsar, Ludhiana and Jalandhar. The party has faced challenges in expanding its support among business communities and middle-class voters in Punjab, particularly after ending its alliance with the SAD.
Sukhbir Singh Badal’s Meeting With PM Modi Adds to Speculation
Chadha’s meeting with Modi came a day after SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal met the Prime Minister on Friday.
The back-to-back meetings have fuelled speculation that the BJP could be open to rebuilding ties with its former ally.
The Akali Dal, whose political fortunes have declined since the rise of the AAP, has reportedly been keen on renewing its alliance with the BJP. The SAD currently has three MLAs and one MP.
With Punjab’s political space becoming increasingly fragmented, the question now is whether Chadha can help script a turnaround for the BJP if he is given a significant role in the state.
Only time will tell.
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