In a strategic move, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has opted not to nominate Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, its prominent MP and former wrestling head, for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Instead, the party has announced his son, Karan Bhushan Singh, as its candidate from Uttar Pradesh's Kaiserganj constituency. This decision, announced today, brings an end to speculations surrounding the Kaiserganj seat and its influential MP.
Alongside Karan Bhushan Singh's nomination, the BJP has declared Pratap Singh as its candidate from the Congress stronghold of Rae Bareli, while the Congress is yet to announce its candidate for the prestigious seat previously held by Sonia Gandhi.
Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, a six-term MP, faced significant political backlash following allegations of sexual harassment, leading to protests by top wrestlers like Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat last year. Concerned about potential repercussions on its electoral prospects in the politically-significant state, the BJP sought an alternative candidate while acknowledging Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh's political influence in the region.
Karan Bhushan Singh, currently heading the Uttar Pradesh wrestling body, steps into the electoral arena amidst heightened attention. Kaiserganj is scheduled to vote on May 20 in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections, with the nomination deadline ending tomorrow.
Despite Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh's denial of the allegations, the case remains pending before a Delhi court. Last month, he attributed the delay in the announcement of the party's Kaiserganj candidate to media attention.
Comments