SP leaders clash in Etah and Kasganj, party pulls out district units

The Socialist Party (SP) is facing a heated internal dispute ahead of the Uttar Pradesh assembly elections, as two senior leaders clashed in a meeting in Etah and Kasganj.

The clash

During a strategy session involving about 25 officials from the two districts, former Etah Panchayat chairman Jogendra Yadav and Manjit Yadav began exchanging harsh words. The quarrel escalated into a full‑blown argument, with both men shouting insults in front of SP chief Akilesh Yadav.

Party response

After the confrontation, Akilesh Yadav left the meeting early. Within an hour, the SP leadership announced the dissolution of the district units in Etah and Kasganj and removed the district presidents. Both leaders later issued apologies, describing themselves as disciplined party members.

Implications for the election

Etah is a stronghold of the BJP, holding all four assembly seats, while Kasganj remains dominated by the SP with three of its four seats. The incident has raised questions about the party’s unity and its ability to present a cohesive front in the upcoming polls.