Samajwadi Party Faces Major Setback as Three MLAs Expelled Over Cross-Voting in Rajya Sabha Elections

Lucknow: In a dramatic turn of events, the Samajwadi Party expels MLAs who were found guilty of cross-voting in the recently concluded Rajya Sabha elections, creating a storm within the party and raising serious concerns over internal loyalty. The three lawmakers—Rakesh Pratap Singh, Abhay Singh, and Rakesh Pandey—were sacked on Sunday for defying the party whip and siding with rival political interests.

This bold yet damaging move by the party leadership has not only exposed internal rifts but also created a perception of weakened organizational discipline at a crucial time for opposition forces in Uttar Pradesh.

Breach of Trust: What Triggered the Expulsion?

The decision to expel the MLAs was taken after an internal review concluded that the three members voted against the party line during the Rajya Sabha elections. These elections are of paramount importance as they determine party representation in the upper house, and any deviation is treated as an act of betrayal.

According to senior party sources, all members were issued clear instructions and a formal whip. However, these three legislators acted otherwise, leading to a domino effect that questioned the party’s political coherence.

SP President Akhilesh Yadav’s Firm Stand on Disloyalty

Akhilesh Yadav, the Samajwadi Party chief, reacted strongly to this act of disobedience. He emphasized that loyalty to the party is non-negotiable, especially when the party is striving to project unity ahead of the 2027 state elections.

By ensuring that the Samajwadi Party expels MLAs, Yadav is making a broader statement that betrayal will not be tolerated, irrespective of the stature of the individual involved. The action is being seen as a move to consolidate his leadership and send a warning to fence-sitters within the party ranks.

The Impact on Samajwadi Party’s Image and Future Strategy

While the decision to expel the MLAs might seem like a clean-up operation, it raises deeper questions about the ideological unity within the Samajwadi Party. The fact that sitting lawmakers openly defied the party’s mandate reveals cracks that could widen if not addressed promptly.

Political observers believe that the Samajwadi Party expels MLAs move is a necessary but costly affair. The expelled leaders have a history of grassroots support in their constituencies, and their alienation could weaken the party’s base if not managed tactically.

Reactions Across the Political Spectrum

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has not wasted time in using this incident to highlight the instability within opposition parties. BJP spokespersons pointed out that this episode showcases the lack of coordination and leadership inside the Samajwadi Party.

On the other hand, Congress and other opposition parties have chosen to remain silent, possibly to avoid straining already fragile alliances. Political experts predict that this expulsion may also affect upcoming seat-sharing deals among opposition parties in Uttar Pradesh.

What Lies Ahead for the Expelled MLAs?

The future of Rakesh Pratap Singh, Abhay Singh, and Rakesh Pandey remains uncertain. While no official statements have been made by the trio post-expulsion, political speculation is rife that they may switch allegiances—possibly towards the BJP, where such political crossovers have become common.

If this speculation turns into reality, it would deal another symbolic blow to the SP and could further alter the political dynamics in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the next general election.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Samajwadi Party Leadership

The development that Samajwadi Party expels MLAs for cross-voting marks a decisive, albeit controversial, phase in the party’s internal politics. It sends a strong message about the importance of discipline and loyalty but also uncovers the urgent need for introspection and organizational strengthening.

As the political battlefield in Uttar Pradesh heats up, the Samajwadi Party must now walk a tightrope—reinforcing inner discipline while keeping its cadre motivated and intact. Whether this expulsion leads to a stronger party or creates further division will depend on the next steps taken by the leadership.

One thing is clear—the road to 2027 just got bumpier for the Samajwadi Party.