OP Rajbhar attributes Akhilesh’s visit to Azam Khan to political compulsion

Taking a dig at Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav’s vist to Mohammad Azam Khan in Rampur, Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP) president and Uttar Pradesh Panchayati Raj Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar called their meeting a result of political compulsion.

Rajbhar noted that Akhilesh Yadav didn’t visit the veteran Samajwadi Party leader even once during his 23-month-long incarceration in jail. Now that Khan is released from jail, he remembered him.

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In a tinge of sarcasm, he said Akhilesh is worried about Azam Khan teaming up with Shivpal Singh Yadav. Since the two leaders have a strong hold within the Samajwadi Party, Akhilesh fears a split in the party.

Om Prakash Rajbhar further stated that Azam Khan still holds sway within the Samajwadi Party. His visit to Rampur to rub his nose at his doorstep is proof of this.

He sarcastically said that Azam Khan’s condition was that Akhilesh should rub his nose at his doorstep and he fulfilled the condition. This shows the veteran leader’s position in the SP.

Rajbhar also said that the impact of Azam Khan’s displeasure has already been felt in the SP. After his arrest, the Rampur seat was snatched from the SP. Akhilesh had remained silent at that time, but is now meeting him to protect his vote bank.

State Minister Rajbhar pointed out that Azam Khan has not yet dismissed the rumours about his joining the BSP or Congress. His statement that Akhilesh is coming to his house, and he will meet him alone; his wife and son will not meet him, indicates that a line of independence has now been drawn between family and politics.

He said by going to Rampur, Akhilesh has indicated that he is now in a weak position and feels the need for a senior leader like Azam Khan. This is similar to how Gabbar Singh said in the film Sholay, “What will happen to you, Kalia? Now, perhaps Azam Khan is asking, ‘What will happen to you, Akhilesh’.”