Seating dispute disrupts Samajwadi Party press conference in Gorakhpur

A press conference organised by the Samajwadi Party in Gorakhpur was disrupted after supporters of two party leaders allegedly clashed over seating arrangements, party functionaries said. The incident occurred on Saturday at the Journalists Press Club during a briefing on the party’s “Loktantra Bachao Saptah” campaign, which is being held from October 2 to 8. The meeting had been convened by district president Brijesh Gautam.

According to party members present, an argument began after Anshuman Singh arrived with supporters at the crowded venue. Singh is seeking an SP ticket from the Gorakhpur Rural constituency for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. The dispute reportedly escalated into a scuffle.

Party functionaries said former district president Nagina Sahani was allegedly slapped by Kamlesh Singh, the son of Anshuman Singh. Senior leaders intervened and separated the groups. A video purportedly showing the incident later appeared on social media.

Anshuman Singh said the controversy was being used to tarnish his image and alleged that internal rivals were creating an unnecessary dispute. Sahani gave a different account, accusing Anshuman Singh’s supporters of misbehaviour, assault and intimidation. He also alleged that some people entered the venue carrying illegal weapons.

The supplied material did not establish those allegations. Gautam said the issue would be reported to SP president Akhilesh Yadav, with further action left to the party leadership. Local leader Kajal Nishad called the incident regrettable and urged party workers to remain restrained.