Now Reading: Brij Bhushan acquittal fuels BJP’s UP poll strategy speculation
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Brij Bhushan acquittal fuels BJP’s UP poll strategy speculation
A Delhi court acquitted former Wrestling Federation of India chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment charges, triggering fresh political debate over his role in the 2027 Uttar…
The Story in Brief
A Delhi court acquitted former Wrestling Federation of India chief and BJP MP Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh of sexual harassment charges, triggering fresh political debate over his role in the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections. He received a hero's welcome in Ayodhya and Gonda, with thousands of supporters greeting him. The BJP had denied him a ticket for the 2024 Lok Sabha polls after the allegations but fielded his son Karan Bhushan Singh from Kaiserganj. Political observers, cited by New Indian Express, say the acquittal gives the party flexibility to use his influence in about 25 assembly seats in eastern UP.
Meanwhile, wrestlers who protested, including Vinesh Phogat, said they would appeal to a higher court. Congress and Samajwadi Party reiterated support for the women. National Herald reports that Brij Bhushan told a gathering the allegations were politically motivated and reduced the issue to "good touch, bad touch". The outlet also links this to a separate complaint by former hockey captain Asunta Lakra against Hockey India officials, raising questions about safety for women in Indian sport.
The Indian Opinion
Brij Bhushan's acquittal has predictably split reactions. His supporters call it vindication; critics see it as a blow to women's safety. But the real test is whether the BJP openly deploys him for the 2027 assembly polls. The party has already hedged its bets by keeping the family in the fold through his son. If the BJP gives him a formal campaign role, it will confirm that political utility trumps the allegations for the party, regardless of the court verdict. Watch for his name in the party's candidate list.
Sources (2): newindianexpress.com, nationalheraldindia.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above.
Updated: this story now draws on 2 sources.
