Amidst Speculation of MLA Manoj Pandey’s Resignation, Samajwadi Party Prepares for By-Elections
UP Politics: Uttar Pradesh’s political landscape is once again witnessing heightened activity. Rumors are circulating that Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA from Unchahar, Rae Bareli, Manoj Kumar Pandey, may resign from his position. Following his potential expulsion from the party, it’s being claimed he is considering joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
In response, the Samajwadi Party has initiated preparations for a potential by-election and is strategizing to retain the Unchahar seat. The party is adopting a “Ghosi Model” approach, aiming to secure victory.
SP Taking Precautions
Party sources indicate that SP is taking the situation very seriously. Should Manoj Pandey resign and a by-election be held in Unchahar, the party intends to field a b candidate and mobilize its resources fully. Strategists believe the party will replicate the strategy employed during the 2023 Ghosi by-election, which was achieved through unified efforts and active ground-level campaigning. The focus will be on identifying a winning candidate capable of garnering local support and strengthening the party’s base.
Ghosi By-Election as an Inspiration for SP
In 2022, Samajwadi Party candidate Dara Singh Chauhan, who won the Ghosi seat, subsequently left the party and contested as a BJP candidate. Shivpal Yadav was entrusted with leading the party’s efforts in this situation, establishing a presence in Ghosi a month before the election.
Despite deploying its candidate, Sudhakar Singh, with full force and strategic planning, the SP managed to defeat Dara Singh Chauhan and win the by-election. The party now believes a similar strategy can be implemented in Unchahar to secure the seat.
Party Takes Stern Action Against Rebellious MLAs
Recently, the Samajwadi Party expelled three MLAs – Manoj Pandey, Abhay Singh, and Raksha Pratap Singh – for alleged anti-party activities. This decision has further intensified the political dynamics in the state. Specifically, discussions are rife regarding the possibility of Manoj Pandey joining the BJP. Abhay Singh and Raksha Pratap Singh have stated that they will consult with their supporters before making a final decision.
The Need for Resignation
As these three MLAs have already been expelled from the party, the anti-defection law applies to them. Consequently, if they switch parties, they will be required to resign from their seats. Only through resignation can by-elections be held on these seats. All eyes are now on whether these MLAs will tender their resignations or pursue alternative strategies.
SP Adopting an Aggressive Electoral Approach
Given these developments, the Samajwadi Party is not leaving any opportunity unseized. Party leadership has affirmed that preparations for the election will be undertaken regardless of the situation. Organizational activity has been heightened, and the process of identifying potential candidates has also commenced. Local workers have been instructed to remain vigilant and engage with the public.
