Raja Bhaiya's Open Voting Advice May Boost SP In Key UP Constituencies

Raja Bhaiya, president of the Jansatta Dal (Loktantrik) and MLA from Kunda, has made a decision that may affect BJP candidates in Pratapgarh and Kaushambi. He tried to form an alliance with the BJP but failed. He then told his supporters they could vote for anyone.

It is believed Raja Bhaiya is indirectly supporting the Samajwadi Party (SP). In an interview with TV9, he suggested his supporters vote as they wish, hinting at support for SP. Raja Bhaiya has significant influence in these areas.

He said, "When our alliance with BJP did not happen, we decided not to field candidates. After discussions, it was decided that you can vote wherever you want. Voters are happy; they can vote." Voting is on May 20 in Kaushambi and May 25 in Pratapgarh.

When asked about SP candidates claiming his support, Raja Bhaiya said, "It is possible due to caste equations and anti-incumbency factors. If someone wears our scarf, it is public sentiment." He added that any bitterness with Akhilesh Yadav is over.

Raja Bhaiya had supported the BJP in the Rajya Sabha elections in February. He also met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Bengaluru. He praised this meeting but clarified that nominations were already filed by then.

He admitted wanting an alliance with the BJP for both Pratapgarh and Kaushambi seats but did not explain why it didn't happen. He said, "We wanted both seats for Jansatta Dal, which could not happen."

Raja Bhaiya praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. He called Modi a strong leader who made decisions in the national interest. About Yogi Adityanath, he said, "Yogi ji is a strong and hardworking Chief Minister."

Regarding the Kshatriya community's displeasure with the BJP due to remarks by BJP leader Purushottam Rupala, he said it was seen in Western Uttar Pradesh but is not there now. He claimed BJP suffered due to this displeasure but cannot say if it will continue.