Rajbhar warns Akhilesh of possible split in Samajwadi Party
Image Source: Times of India
In a fresh political development in Uttar Pradesh, Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) chief Om Prakash Rajbhar has issued a warning to Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav, suggesting that discontent within the SP could lead to a split. Rajbhar, a former ally of the SP, made the remarks amid speculation of internal discord in the party.
Speaking to the media, Rajbhar said: 'Akhilesh ji should save his MPs. There is unrest within the party, and if not addressed, it may result in a division.' He did not provide specific details about the nature of the unrest or which leaders might be involved.
The warning comes at a time when the Samajwadi Party is trying to consolidate its position ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The party has been facing challenges from within, with some senior leaders expressing dissatisfaction over organisational matters and seat-sharing arrangements.
Rajbhar's SBSP had contested the 2022 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections in alliance with the SP but later parted ways, citing ideological differences. Since then, Rajbhar has been critical of Akhilesh Yadav's leadership, although he has not ruled out future alliances.
Political analysts note that Rajbhar's comments could be an attempt to pressure the SP leadership or to position himself as a key player in any realignment of caste-based political forces in the state. The SBSP primarily represents the Rajbhar community, an Other Backward Class (OBC) group.
The Samajwadi Party has not officially responded to Rajbhar's remarks. However, party insiders suggest that Akhilesh Yadav is in touch with various factions to maintain unity. The SP currently has 37 MPs in the Lok Sabha.
