Samajwadi Party Responds to BJP's Claims of Internal Division
The Samajwadi Party has firmly rebutted claims made by BJP leaders regarding a potential split within its ranks. MP Avadhesh Prasad stated that the ruling party is anxious about the rising popularity of Akhilesh Yadav, leading to unfounded allegations of defections. Yadav himself dismissed these claims, asserting the unity and strength of the party. As political tensions escalate in Uttar Pradesh, the SP remains steadfast, with leaders emphasizing their commitment to the party and its supporters. This ongoing political drama raises questions about the future dynamics in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.
| Jun 18, 2026, 14:36 IST
SP Leaders Defend Party Unity Amid BJP's Claims
In response to predictions of a significant split within the Samajwadi Party (SP) made by BJP leaders, SP MP Avadhesh Prasad countered on Thursday, asserting that the ruling party is anxious about the rising popularity of SP chief Akhilesh Yadav. He suggested that the BJP's statements about potential defections are unfounded. This reaction came after Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya claimed that several SP MPs are in contact with the BJP ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.
Prasad emphasized that the BJP's anxiety stems from Akhilesh Yadav's increasing appeal, leading them to make baseless claims. He noted that public trust in the SP and Yadav is growing. This exchange of statements follows claims by Uttar Pradesh Minister and Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) leader Om Prakash Rajbhar, along with Deputy CM Maurya, suggesting an impending rift within the SP.
On Wednesday, Akhilesh Yadav, the SP president, dismissed any possibility of a split within the party, asserting that it remains united and its workers are resilient. His comments were a direct response to Rajbhar's allegations that a significant division was imminent, with several leaders, including senior figure Ram Gopal Yadav, reportedly preparing to join the BJP.
Maurya further claimed that 25 to 26 SP MPs are likely to leave the party before the 2027 elections, while denying any attempts by the BJP to induce defections. In a post on X, Rajbhar alleged that pressure from investigations into alleged scams during the SP's previous term is causing unrest among party leaders, potentially leading to a major split.
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