UP Bypolls: Woman Allegedly Killed For Backing BJP; Saffron Party Blames Samajwadi Party Workers

A tragic incident in Uttar Pradesh's Karhal constituency has ignited political tensions. The body of a 23-year-old Dalit woman was discovered in a sack, hours after she went missing. Her family claims that a local Samajwadi Party worker had been coercing her not to vote for the BJP in the ongoing bypolls.

Police have arrested Prashant Yadav and Mohan Katheria following a complaint by the woman's father. Mainpuri district police chief Vinod Kumar stated, "The parents of the woman have said the accused killed her because she wanted to vote for the BJP."

Political Allegations and Arrests

The victim's father recounted an encounter with Prashant Yadav three days prior. Yadav allegedly asked her voting preference, and upon hearing she intended to support 'lotus'-the BJP symbol-he threatened her to choose 'cycle,' representing the Samajwadi Party.

The BJP has fiercely criticised the Samajwadi Party over this incident. State BJP chief Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary expressed outrage on X, stating, "At Karhal in Mainpuri district, Samajwadi Party's Prashant Yadav and his aides brutally murdered a Dalit daughter only because she refused to vote for 'cycle'."

Reactions from Political Parties

While senior leaders of the Samajwadi Party have yet to comment on this matter, Tej Pratap Yadav, their candidate in Karhal, has called for a comprehensive investigation. He emphasised that those responsible should face severe consequences.

The woman's family highlighted that their decision to support BJP stemmed from receiving a home under the PM Awas Yojana. This government scheme aims at providing affordable housing to eligible beneficiaries across India.

This incident underscores the intense political rivalry in Uttar Pradesh, especially during election periods. It also raises concerns about voter intimidation and violence against marginalised communities.

As investigations continue, there is growing pressure on authorities to ensure justice is served swiftly. The case has drawn significant attention from both political parties and civil society groups alike.