Internal Conflict Erupts in Western UP After Election Setback
Leaders Sangeet Som and Sanjeev Balyan Exchange Accusations Amid Political Turmoil
Lucknow: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is facing internal strife in Western Uttar Pradesh following a significant electoral defeat. Key leaders Sangeet Som and Sanjeev Balyan have been at odds, with tensions escalating into a public blame game.
In the aftermath of the recent elections, the BJP lost several crucial seats in Western UP, including Saharanpur, Kairana, Sambhal, Moradabad, Muzaffarnagar, and Nagina. This setback has triggered a rift between Balyan and Som, each accusing the other of contributing to the party’s poor performance.
Accusations Fly Between Leaders
Sanjeev Balyan, a prominent Jat leader and former Union Minister, who had previously won the Muzaffarnagar seat, was defeated by Samajwadi Party’s Harendra Singh Malik. Responding to Sangeet Som’s comments made during the campaign, Balyan expressed his hope that the BJP leadership would take action against those who allegedly supported the Samajwadi Party.
In retaliation, Rajput leader and former MLA Sangeet Som emphasized his loyalty to the BJP, stating, “I work for the lotus symbol, not for any person.” He highlighted his efforts in securing the BJP’s victory in the Sardhana seat, despite challenging circumstances, and urged Balyan to introspect on his own electoral loss.
The Press Note Controversy
The conflict took a dramatic turn with the emergence of a press note bearing Sangeet Som’s letterhead. The note accused Sanjeev Balyan of extensive corruption, alleging that he had invested in foreign properties, including a plot in Australia, with funds amassed during his tenure as a Union minister. These claims were linked to an acquaintance, Sanjeev Sehrawat.
Balyan vehemently denied these allegations, and Sehrawat issued a defamation notice to Som, refuting any involvement in such deals and asserting that his reputation had been tarnished by these false claims.
Denials and Police Investigation
In a twist, Sangeet Som denied issuing the controversial press note, suggesting that it was part of a conspiracy to discredit him. He claimed that someone had fabricated the document and distributed it during his press meet.
A police complaint has been filed to investigate the matter, and an FIR has been registered. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from Som’s press conference to uncover the truth behind the disputed note.
As the BJP grapples with internal discord following its electoral losses in Western UP, the public feud between Sangeet Som and Sanjeev Balyan highlights deeper issues within the party. The outcome of the police investigation and the party’s response to these allegations will be critical in shaping the BJP’s future strategy in this politically significant region.