BJP concerned over Akhilesh's growing appeal, says Samajwadi MP

A Samajwadi Party MP has suggested that the BJP is anxious about Akhilesh Yadav's increasing popularity. Awadhesh Prasad made the remarks while responding to claims by Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya that several SP lawmakers were in contact with the BJP.

Maurya had asserted that multiple Samajwadi MPs were in touch with the saffron party ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. Prasad's counter-statement indicates tensions between the two parties as they prepare for the state polls.