'Tata Bye-Bye' to BJP: Dharmendra Kashyap Heads to Lucknow to Join SP
Former BJP MP Dharmendra Kashyap leaves for Lucknow with a massive convoy to officially join the Samajwadi Party after citing neglect in the BJP.
In a dramatic political shift that has sent ripples through the Rohilkhand region, former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament Dharmendra Kashyap joins Samajwadi Party officially today, October 27, 2026. Marking his exit with a grand gesture, Kashyap departed from Bareilly for Lucknow accompanied by a massive convoy consisting of hundreds of vehicles, signaling a high-profile defection from the saffron party.
Feelings of 'Suffocation' and Lack of Respect
The departure was not a sudden decision but the culmination of growing discontent. Kashyap did not mince words regarding his reasons for leaving the BJP, citing a profound sense of "suffocation" within the party ranks. He expressed that he was not accorded the respect he expected and felt sidelined by the party leadership.
A critical turning point in his decision was reportedly the denial of a Rajya Sabha ticket, which left the former MP feeling undervalued. Before his official move, Kashyap had already hinted at his departure via social media, posting a provocative 'tata bye-bye' message that captured the attention of political observers across Uttar Pradesh.
The Road to Lucknow: A Strategic Alliance
This formal induction follows an initial meeting on October 11, 2026, where Kashyap visited SP President Akhilesh Yadav in Lucknow. During that encounter, which he attended alongside his daughter, Kirti Kashyap, the intention to switch allegiances was first voiced.
At the time, Akhilesh Yadav characterized the meeting as a friendly visit. However, the discussions went deeper than mere pleasantries, focusing on the strengthening of the 'PDA' (Pichde, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) movement, a core strategic pillar for the Samajwadi Party's outreach to backward classes, Dalits, and minorities.
Family Ambitions and Regional Impact
Political insiders suggest that the move is not just about Kashyap's own political survival but also about the future of his family. It is reported that he is seeking a ticket for his daughter, Kirti Kashyap, to contest from the Bithari Chainpur assembly constituency under the SP banner.
The Samajwadi Party views this acquisition as a strategic win. By bringing Kashyap into the fold, the SP expects to significantly bolster its presence in the Rohilkhand region, specifically by attracting voters from the Kashyap community.
A Grand Entry
The scale of the defection was evident in the live broadcast on Kashyap's Facebook page, which showed a sea of vehicles traveling toward the state capital. The formal induction process is being coordinated by several heavyweights of the Samajwadi Party, including:
- Shubhlesh Yadav (SP Bareilly District President)
- Veerpal Singh Yadav (Former Rajya Sabha MP)
- Bhagwat Saran Gangwar (Former Minister)
As Dharmendra Kashyap officially transitions from the BJP to the SP, all eyes are now on how this shift will impact the electoral dynamics of the Bithari Chainpur seat and the broader political landscape of Uttar Pradesh.