Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh organized a show of strength in Kaiserganj, Uttar Pradesh, in preparation for his son Karan’s nomination for the Lok Sabha elections on behalf of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Around 500 to 700 SUVs were parked at the rally ground, and more than 10,000 supporters attended, including MLAs, MLCs, zila panchayat heads, local BJP leadership from nearby districts, and religious leaders from Ayodhya’s akhadas.
Dressed in a yellow kurta with an orange scarf and dhoti, Brij Bhushan managed the event with a microphone in hand, surrounded by enthusiastic party workers. He kept a low profile, steering clear of Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya and his son while focusing on engaging with dignitaries and religious leaders. He did not accompany his son to file his nomination.
“Five people were allowed to go for the nomination filing,” Brij Bhushan explained when questioned about his absence. “I usually stay behind to oversee the arrangements. This is my normal practice; there was no specific instruction.”
Brij Bhushan, a six-time MP, faced political challenges due to sexual harassment allegations, with top wrestlers protesting against him. The former president of the Wrestling Federation of India denied the accusations.
Critics questioned the BJP’s decision to give Brij Bhushan a ticket despite the party’s slogan “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao.” Brij Bhushan responded, “A senior Congress leader asked me to join their party and offered me a seat to contest. This could impact nearby constituencies as well.”
Regarding his future in the party, Brij Bhushan stated, “Hoihi soi jo Ram rachi rakha (Whatever Lord Ram has destined will happen). While I used to contest elections, now I manage them. My role now is more of a kingmaker.”
Brij Bhushan refrained from commenting on the legal cases against him, stating the matter was before the court.
Throughout the event, Brij Bhushan was surrounded by supporters and workers and remained central to the gathering. The event concluded only after his departure.
Meanwhile, Karan Bhushan engaged with attendees, receiving scarves and garlands. “I learned about the BJP ticket in the morning, but I wasn’t certain until it was officially announced,” Karan told News18. “I will strive to continue my father’s positive work.”
Asked about his stance on competition with the Samajwadi Party or Bahujan Samaj Party, Karan said, “All of Kaiserganj is my family. I will seek their blessings. There is no confrontation here.” Voting for the Kaiserganj seat will take place on May 20, in the fifth round of the ongoing seven-phase general elections.
Karan, a national-level double trap shooter, holds a diploma in business management from Australia. He is the president of the UP Wrestling Association and Cooperative Village Development Bank in Nawabganj, Gonda.
During his son’s nomination, Brij Bhushan addressed the crowd, speaking emotionally about his connection to the people of Kaiserganj.
Supporters expressed enthusiasm about Karan entering politics and Brij Bhushan’s family’s hold on the Kaiserganj seat. They believe the allegations against Brij Bhushan are politically motivated and aimed at removing him from his position as WFI president due to opposition from the “Haryana lobby.” Supporters argue the accusations have little effect on Brij Bhushan’s reputation, citing his contributions to educational institutions and hospitals in the area.
Observers note that Brij Bhushan remains a significant figure in Uttar Pradesh politics, influencing five Lok Sabha constituencies (Kaiserganj, Gonda, Balrampur, Shrawasti, Ayodhya, and Bahraich) through his connections with 54 educational institutions.
His extensive network of colleges, schools, and wrestling academies functions as his political base. His prominence grew through organizing wrestling events and sports fairs. Brij Bhushan came into the national spotlight when named as an accused in the Babri Masjid demolition case. He later joined the BJP due to his relationship with Ashok Singhal of the Vishva Hindu Parishad and expanded his political influence with the establishment of Nandini Nagar College in Nawabganj.
Brij Bhushan belongs to the Kshatriya caste, but his influence extends beyond caste lines. His wife, Ketkidevi, serves as a zila panchayat president, and his son Prateek is an MLA from Gonda Sadar. Through his connections, many other MLAs, MLCs, and zila panchayat heads have been elected.
