New Delhi: A press conference of the Samajwadi Party (SP) in Gorakhpur was disrupted on Saturday after supporters of former district president Nagina Sahani
and party leader Anshuman Singh allegedly clashed over seating arrangements, party leaders said.
The incident took place around 2:45 pm at the Journalists Press Club during a press conference organised by SP district president Brijesh Gautam to brief the media about the party’s ‘Loktantra Bachao Saptah’ campaign, being held from October 2 to 8.
Seating dispute escalates into scuffle
According to party functionaries present at the venue, an argument broke out after Anshuman Singh, who is seeking an SP ticket from the Gorakhpur Rural Assembly constituency for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, arrived at the packed hall with his supporters and sought seating space.
The argument soon escalated into a scuffle. During the altercation, Sahani was allegedly slapped by Kamlesh Singh, the son of Anshuman Singh.
Party functionaries and senior leaders intervened and separated the two groups. A video purportedly showing the incident later surfaced on social media.
Anshuman Singh claimed that the controversy was being used to tarnish his image. He alleged that political rivals within the party were attempting to create an unnecessary controversy around the incident.
Sahani, however, accused Anshuman Singh’s supporters of misbehaviour, assault and intimidation. He also alleged that some people had entered the venue carrying illegal weapons.
SP leadership to decide further action
SP district president Brijesh Gautam said the matter would be brought to the notice of party president Akhilesh Yadav. He said further action would be decided by the party leadership.
Local SP leader Kajal Nishad termed the incident regrettable and appealed to party workers to maintain restraint.
The clash comes as political activity intensifies ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, with party leaders and prospective candidates seeking greater visibility and organisational support.
