New Delhi: For years, two Patel sisters, Anupriya and Pallavi, have been prominent names in Uttar Pradesh politics, especially among OBC leaders in the state. Although they belong to the same family, the two are political rivals.
Now, another Patel sister is gearing up to enter the electoral arena—Parul Patel, the eldest of the four daughters of Apna Dal founder Sonelal Patel.
According to sources close to the family, Parul and Pallavi are aligned with their mother, Krishna Patel, who leads Apna Dal (Kamerawadi) faction, while Union Minister of State Anupriya Patel and the youngest sister, Aman are on the other side, with Apna Dal (Sonelal) faction.
Krishna Patel is seeking a Samajwadi Party-led alliance ticket for Parul for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections, the sources said.
In 2022, mother Krishna and daughter Pallavi had contested as part of the SP alliance. While the former had lost her seat, the latter had defeated then Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya in Sirathu constituency, drawing considerable attention.
Now, Parul has been seen accompanying her mother and sister Pallavi at organisational programmes of Apna Dal (K).
And with Parul’s possible entry into electoral politics, there is speculation that Anupriya may consider her younger sister Aman’s political debut. However, nothing has been officially confirmed so far.
Why BJP leaders in Karnataka are dodging the spotlight
In contrast to political leaders grandstanding for plum posts, a section of BJP leaders in Karnataka is trying to steer clear of the limelight, ahead of a possible change in the state leadership.
The party’s central leadership is currently considering a potential replacement for B.Y. Vijayendra, who will complete three years as state BJP chief this month.
One BJP leader told ThePrint said he has been careful not to project himself as a likely candidate for the state president’s role, or air his views to the media on record.
“In our party, if you ask or if someone recommends you, the chances of it denting your prospects are higher,” the senior party leader and former state minister told ThePrint, requesting anonymity.
He added the party high command is aware of each leader’s contribution, and seeking out a post is more likely to be counterintuitive.
He further said that he has been careful not to approach the central leadership on the matter, and even laid down some ground rules for loyalists—“don’t propose my name”.
(Edited by Mannat Chugh)