The controversy erupted after the party replaced Chadha with Jalandhar MP Ashok Mittal, citing "internal restructuring," though rumours of a rift with the party leadership have set social media ablaze.
The Video That Sparked the Support 📽️
In response to his removal and allegations that he hadn't focused enough on Punjab-specific issues, Raghav Chadha posted a powerful montage on Instagram:
The Content: The video highlights his most vocal moments in Parliament, ranging from demanding a Bharat Ratna for Bhagat Singh to advocating for the Nankana Sahib corridor and legal guarantees for MSP.
The Caption: He simply used an Indian flag emoji, letting his track record speak for itself.
The Stance: On X, he further defended his record, stating that Punjab isn't just his home but his "duty, soil, and soul," dismissed the "scripted campaigns" against him.
Sonam Bajwa’s "Clapback" Support 👏
While Raghav is married to actor Parineeti Chopra, his support system has extended far beyond family:
Sonam’s Reaction: Sonam Bajwa commented on the video with multiple clapping emoticons, a quiet but firm signal of solidarity that has gone viral among the Punjabi diaspora.
The Global Connection: Priyanka Chopra Jonas (Parineeti's cousin) also rooted for him, commenting with heart-eyes and applause emojis, while Disha Patani’s sister, Khushboo Patani, went as far as suggesting he should "form his own party."
The "Dhurandhar" Defense: Raghav even used a cinematic reference to describe his current state, telling the media, "Ghayal hoon... par Dhurandhar abhi baaki hai" (I am wounded... but the warrior is still here), referencing the current box-office juggernaut.
Why the Demotion? The Two Sides of the Coin 🪙
The "AAP" Version The "Speculation" Version Part of a standard "internal restructuring" process. Result of an alleged rift with the party's top leadership. Aimed at giving more responsibility to other MPs like Ashok Mittal. Retaliation for Chadha "distancing himself" during key political shifts. Denies any "scripted campaign" against him. Linked to his increasing national profile and "soft PR."
Parineeti Chopra’s "Proud Wife" Post 💖
Parineeti has been her husband's biggest cheerleader throughout the weekend. She shared the same video of his speeches, noting how proud she was of him for bringing up "ground-level" issues like paternity leave and groundwater depletion in Punjab. She accompanied the post with the caption: "Always with you, always proud."
SantaBanta Verdict:
Raghav Chadha has successfully flipped a political setback into a moment of personal brand strength. By garnering support from the likes of Sonam Bajwa, he has ensured that his "Punjab credentials" remain untarnished in the eyes of the public, regardless of his title in the Rajya Sabha. For the followers in Mohali, the "Raghav vs. The System" narrative is currently 2026's most-watched political drama.
