UP BJP Faces Internal Dispute Over Brahmin Legislators Meeting

Internal Dispute in UP BJP Over Brahmin Legislators Meeting

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Uttar Pradesh is currently experiencing internal discord following a recent gathering of Brahmin legislators and MLCs in Lucknow. Newly appointed state president Pankaj Chaudhary has cautioned against organizing caste-based meetings, stating that such actions will be deemed as indiscipline in the future. In contrast, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya and several other leaders have defended the meeting, asserting that there was nothing inappropriate about it.

Concerns Raised Over Pankaj Chaudhary's Statement

The discussion has intensified regarding the negative reception of Pankaj Chaudhary's statement within the Brahmin community, with many suggesting that he could have handled the situation more tactfully. On December 23, during the winter session of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, a group of Brahmin legislators convened in Lucknow, drawing significant attention. This meeting included not only BJP members but also rebel legislators from the Samajwadi Party, and was held at the residence of BJP's Kushinagar MLA Panchanand Pathak to celebrate his wife's birthday.

Chaudhary's Strong Warning

Following the meeting, state BJP president Pankaj Chaudhary issued a stern warning, declaring that caste-based gatherings contradict both the Constitution and the party's principles, and warned that any recurrence would be treated as indiscipline. However, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Maurya and other BJP leaders disagreed with this stance. Maurya remarked, "The perspective is incorrect; the intent is not. People meet, and they should. If a legislator attends a birthday or wedding celebration, it should not be labeled as a caste-based meeting."

Support from Other Leaders

Minister Dharmveer Prajapati and Sunil Sharma echoed similar sentiments. Prajapati noted that legislators often gather during sessions and hold meetings, which should not be associated with casteism. Sharma added, "During sessions, four to six members frequently sit together. If legislators from Western Uttar Pradesh gather, it is labeled in a certain way. There was no political intent behind it; discussions likely revolved around strengthening the nation, Sanatan, and the party."

Opposition's Reaction

Former BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh also expressed support for the meeting, stating he does not view it negatively. Those who disagree are entitled to their opinions. Seizing the opportunity, opposition parties like Congress and the Samajwadi Party have attempted to woo Brahmin voters. Congress state president Ajay Rai urged BJP's Brahmin leaders to adopt a firmer stance. Meanwhile, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav remarked that publicly warning and labeling individuals as 'indisciplined' could ultimately lead to an 'arrogant ruler becoming uncontrollable.'