Lucknow: In a significant political development that could mount fresh challenges for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Uttar Pradesh, the Karni Sena has officially announced its intention to contest 50 seats in the upcoming state assembly elections. The major declaration was made by the organisation’s national president and former BJP leader, Suraj Pal Singh Ammu, setting the stage for increased political temperatures across the state.
Speaking to media persons in Lucknow following a public programme concerning the UGC rollback issue, Ammu clarified his personal electoral plans while asserting his group’s political ambitions. He confirmed that while he will not be entering the electoral fray himself, the young leaders of his organisation will fiercely contest the elections.
“I will not contest the elections, but the youth of my party will step onto the battlefield. We want to bring those who are drunk on arrogance back down to earth,” Ammu stated confidently.
Sharply criticising the contemporary political discourse in the state, the Karni Sena chief urged political factions to stop polarising voters for electoral gains. “Political parties should not divide people in the name of caste and religion. In today’s society, there are only two real castes—the rich and the poor, and we must base our politics on economic realities,” he asserted. The Lucknow event was attended by several prominent figures, including Alankar Agnihotri and Harsh Dubey.
Ammu, who was closely associated with the saffron party for nearly 37 years before resigning in 2024, has recently adopted an aggressive stance against the BJP. He has openly questioned the ruling party’s alliance strategies, expressing his sheer discontent over giving prominence, electoral tickets, and cabinet berths to regional leaders like Om Prakash Rajbhar. Highlighting that the Karni Sena enjoys support across all communities, he declared that his outfit is not politically enslaved to anyone and possesses every right to establish its independent political footprint.
To ensure a strong debut, the organisation has already commenced grassroots preparations. The Karni Sena plans to mobilise its workers to reach every village and connect with voters, indicating that the upcoming Uttar Pradesh assembly polls could witness a highly competitive battle.