Former AAP MPs to Spearhead BJP's 'Drug-Free Punjab Yatra' With Key Roles for Raghav Chadha and Sandeep Pathak

In a significant political development in Punjab, six Rajya Sabha members who transitioned from the Aam Aadmi Party to the Bharatiya Janata Party made their collective debut at a high-level Punjab BJP meeting. The party has finalized a strategic blueprint to feature these prominent former AAP figures as the primary faces of the proposed "Drug-Free Punjab Yatra." Guided by Punjab BJP in-charge Dr. Satish Poonia, the high-stakes gathering focused on mobilizing grassroots public awareness against the state's deep-rooted drug menace by leveraging the extensive political networks and organizational expertise of these newly inducted lawmakers.Strategic Responsibilities for Raghav Chadha and Dr. Sandeep PathakAmong the high-profile leaders participating in the strategy sessions are Rajya Sabha members Raghav Chadha and Dr. Sandeep Pathak, both of whom severed ties with the Aam Aadmi Party in April 2026. This marks Raghav Chadha's second major visit to Punjab since joining the BJP, following an earlier meeting in Ludhiana, and follows his recent public questions directed at the Punjab government regarding voter list controversies. Meanwhile, Dr. Sandeep Pathak is visiting the state for the first time since his party switch, bringing valuable insider knowledge of Punjab's complex political landscape from his previous role as a key strategist for the AAP. Additionally, Rajya Sabha member Rajinder Gupta has been slated for leadership responsibilities overseeing the yatra's execution across the Ludhiana and Barnala regions.Political Significance of the United Front and Public Awareness FocusThe upcoming yatra marks a historic political milestone, as six of Punjab's seven Rajya Sabha members who joined the BJP earlier this year will share a common political stage for the first time (while the seventh member, Sant Balbir Singh Seechewal, remains with the AAP). By positioning these seasoned leaders at the forefront, the BJP aims to frame the statewide campaign strictly as an inclusive, grassroots public awareness mission against drug abuse rather than a conventional political roadshow. Party leadership hopes that utilizing leaders who understand the state's regional dynamics will significantly bolster public engagement and reinforce the BJP's outreach across Punjab.