Political Friction: Ram Bhual Nishad vs. Maneka Gandhi

Samajwadi Party MP Ram Bhual Nishad called former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi 'frustrated' after she filed a petition challenging his election. Gandhi alleges Nishad concealed his criminal record. The BJP criticized Nishad for his remarks, insisting he respect the judicial process. The court's judgment is pending.

Samajwadi Party MP Ram Bhual Nishad labeled former Union Minister Maneka Gandhi as 'frustrated' on Saturday, prompting a sharp response from the BJP.

Responding to reporters' questions about Gandhi's high court petition challenging his election, Nishad likened her to a 'hissing cat scratching a post'—a Hindi idiom signaling frustration. He argued that the people had already 'defeated her in the election,' and she should accept it. According to Nishad, Gandhi's petition was filed after the deadline and lacks merit.

The BJP quickly condemned Nishad's comments. Harish Chandra Srivastava, the party's state spokesperson, called the remarks indecent and urged Nishad to respect the judicial process. He criticized the Samajwadi Party for inappropriate language, suggesting that the people of Uttar Pradesh would respond accordingly.

This controversy stems from Gandhi's petition in the Allahabad High Court, alleging that Nishad concealed details of his criminal record in his affidavit. Gandhi's counsel argued for leniency in the petition's filing delay, and the court has reserved its judgment on its maintainability. Gandhi claims Nishad disclosed only eight of twelve pending criminal cases.

(With inputs from agencies.)