UP Bypolls: Akhilesh Yadav Cries Foul Play, Says SP Supporters Being Stopped By Officials From Reaching Booths

UP Bypolls: Samajwadi Party chief and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday alleged that some police and election officials are acting biased and are not allowing SP supporters reach the polling booths.

He also shared some videos on the micro-blogging site X appealing to the Election Commission to take cognizance of the incidents and take immediate action. Akhilesh Yadav said Policemen have no right to check any voter's id and it is only the election officer's responsibility.

"If you are being stopped from voting, then go not once but many times and come back after casting your vote," SP Chief urged his party supporters.

Akhilesh Yadav further directed party workers to record such incidents with their mobile phones and appeal for transparency and accountability. "Make a video of the officer who harasses you and send it to us," Akhilesh Yadav added.

The SP chief's allegations did not go unanswered. Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak countered Yadav's claims, insisting that the by-elections are proceeding peacefully across all nine seats. Pathak encouraged the state's citizens to exercise their voting rights, dismissing the SP's accusations as a facade to conceal their anticipated defeat. He affirmed, "We are in favor of free and fair elections," highlighting a stark contrast in narratives between the two political factions.

Voting for Uttar Pradesh's nine assembly by-polls election is underway. According to the reports over 20 % voter turnout was recorded till 11 am.

The by-poll Election is a direct contest between Samajwadi Party and BJP, which may drop a hint for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh elections too.