The Samajwadi Party has dissolved its Kannauj district unit following a poorly attended workers’ conference, according to media reports. The decision came after videos showing empty chairs at the event circulated on social media, drawing criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
The conference was organised by Samajwadi Party Uttar Pradesh president Shyamlal Pal at the party office in Kannauj. The meeting was intended to mobilise party workers under the PDA outreach, which focuses on backward classes, Dalits and minorities.
However, videos of the event appeared to show a limited audience, with several leaders seated on the stage while many chairs remained empty. The visuals subsequently became a subject of political debate.
Kannauj holds particular significance for party chief Akhilesh Yadav, who represents the constituency in the Lok Sabha. His wife, Dimple Yadav, has also represented the seat in Parliament.
BJP leaders reportedly used the incident to question the effectiveness of the Samajwadi Party’s PDA outreach and its ability to mobilise supporters.
Following the event, the party dissolved its Kannauj district unit and removed office-bearers from their organisational positions, according to reports. The move is being viewed as an attempt to strengthen discipline and improve coordination within the local organisation.
Similar organisational action has reportedly been taken in Gorakhpur, Etah and Kasganj following separate controversies involving local leaders.
The Kannauj episode has renewed questions about the party’s grassroots mobilisation and organisational effectiveness, while providing the BJP with an opportunity to challenge the Samajwadi Party’s political messaging.
