At 2:45 p.m. on Saturday, an SP press conference at the Journalists Press Club in Gorakhpur aimed to launch the party’s "Loktantra Bachao Saptah" campaign.
The event drew a packed hall of party workers and local media, with Anshuman Singh—contender for the Gorakhpur Rural seat—seeking a seat that would stall the proceedings.
When Singh arrived with supporters, a heated argument erupted over seating arrangements. Kamlesh Singh, his son, was seen moving to a spot that Nagina Sahani had claimed.
The quarrel escalated into a scuffle. Sahani was slapped by Kamlesh, and the clash drew the attention of senior leaders who separated the factions.
A video of the incident went viral, prompting a social media backlash. Singh insisted the controversy was a smear campaign, while Sahani accused his supporters of intimidation and alleged weapon possession.
SP district chief Brijesh Gautam said the matter would be forwarded to party president Akhilesh Yadav, and that disciplinary measures would follow. Local leader Kajal Nishad called the episode "regrettable" and urged restraint.
The next step is imminent: the party’s disciplinary committee is scheduled to convene on Monday to review the footage and decide on sanctions.
The incident underscores internal discord ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, where fans of Singh and Sahani are vying for the same seat.