Internal dissent within the BJP in Uttar Pradesh has surfaced following the announcement of Rajya Sabha candidates, turning into a major political crisis. Nearly 12 years ago, the BJP had altered the Lok Sabha constituencies of stalwarts Maneka Gandhi and Varun Gandhi to accommodate Dharmendra Kashyap. Today, the very same leader has distanced himself from the ruling party.
Threat to BJP's Social Engineering in Rohilkhand
Dharmendra Kashyap, a prominent OBC leader from Rohilkhand and a two-time former MP from Aonla, has turned rebel. He removed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photo from his social media bio, and the party flag was taken down from his residence. Rumours are strong that he may join the Samajwadi Party soon, having already met Akhilesh Yadav. His exit could severely dent the BJP's careful social engineering in the Rohilkhand belt.
When Maneka and Varun Gandhi's Seats Were Switched
Kashyap had joined the BJP in 2013 ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections after leaving the SP. Eying the Aonla seat—then held by Maneka Gandhi—the party shifted Maneka to Pilibhit and Varun Gandhi to Sultanpur to accommodate Kashyap. The move helped the BJP consolidate the Kashyap and backward caste vote bank in the region, leading to successive wins for Kashyap in 2014 and 2019.
The Catalyst: Rajya Sabha Ticket Snub
After losing the 2024 general elections, Kashyap reportedly hoped the party would nominate him to the Rajya Sabha. However, with his name missing from the latest candidate list, his discontent spilled over, leading to his silent yet potent rebellion.
'The Freelance' does not independently verify claims made in political reports circulating across media platforms. This is a developing political story. Credits: Respective Media Reports / Social Media Handles.
