Political Row: NDA Allies Defend BJP Strategy as Opposition Targets Outreach Ahead of UP Polls

As political preparations intensify ahead of the Uttar Pradesh elections, NDA ally and Uttar Pradesh minister Sanjay Nishad defended the BJP-led alliance’s outreach to backward and marginalized communities. In an interview, he praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, saying the government has worked towards the welfare and empowerment of the last person in society in line with the principle of Antyodaya. Referring to the NDA meeting, where photographs of Prime Minister Modi with Sanjay Nishad, Anupriya Patel, and Om Prakash Rajbhar gained attention, Nishad described the interaction as a matter of pride and highlighted the government’s focus on social justice, security, education, and economic empowerment. Meanwhile, the opposition questioned the BJP’s strategy. Samajwadi Party leaders alleged that NDA allies had failed to fulfill promises made to their respective communities, particularly regarding reservation and social justice issues. Congress leaders also criticized the BJP, accusing it of using symbolic gestures and political theatrics during elections while neglecting the interests of marginalized groups, farmers, youth, women, and minorities. The exchange reflects the growing political battle over caste-based outreach and coalition politics as parties position themselves for the upcoming electoral contest in Uttar Pradesh.