by Sunil Bajpai
Kanpur: The Samajwadi Party (SP) has officially nominated Naseem Solanki, the wife of imprisoned MLA Irfan Solanki, as its candidate for the upcoming by-election in the Sisamau constituency. This seat became vacant following Irfan Solanki’s conviction in the Jajmau Aag Jani case, which led to his seven-year sentence.
The decision to endorse Naseem Solanki received unanimous support from party members and local workers, with SP MLA Amitabh Bajpai expressing confidence in her victory following the announcement. He stated that her nomination confirmed a strong likelihood of success in the polls.
The BJP has responded to this development with renewed strategizing. Analysts suggest that Naseem Solanki’s candidacy could attract emotional votes, particularly from her husband’s supporters. Additionally, there are concerns within the BJP about retaining Hindu voters who may have affiliations with Irfan Solanki. The party is mobilizing efforts to prevent any shift of these voters toward the Samajwadi Party.
Irfan Solanki has been incarcerated since December 2, 2022, following his conviction for charges related to the burning of a woman’s house, which led to the cancellation of his assembly membership. The Sisamau by-election marks the first electoral contest since his imprisonment.
Historically, since 2012, the Sisamau seat has seen three assembly elections, with the BJP consistently finishing in second place but failing to secure a win. Muslim voters play a pivotal role in determining the outcome in this constituency, making the upcoming by-election a significant contest for both parties.
