A political storm has erupted after revelations that Suresh Rathore, a senior BJP leader from Uttarakhand and former MLA from the Jwalapur constituency in Haridwar, was involved in bigamy. Rathore recently made public his marriage to Saharanpur actress Urmila Sanawar.
BJP Issued Show Cause Notice
Following this disclosure, concerns were raised about the BJP's image, especially as the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) is enforced in the state, prohibiting a second marriage while the first wife is still married. The BJP handed Rathore a show cause notice, accusing him of indiscipline and damaging the party's reputation, and demanded an explanation within seven days.
Expulsion Due to Lack of Response
With no satisfactory response, the BJP took stern action and expelled Rathore from the party for six years. The party's state general secretary clarified that Rathore's conduct was against party discipline and dignity, harming the party's public image.
Congress Questions BJP
The Congress criticized the BJP, accusing it of not enforcing the law on its leaders and utilizing the UCC merely as a tool against the opposition. Congress questioned why no action was taken against Rathore when the law applies to everyone equally.
Future Actions?
The pressing question remains whether any legal proceedings will be initiated against Suresh Rathore under the UCC or if the matter will be confined to party expulsion.
Who is Suresh Rathore?
Suresh Rathore is a seasoned leader within the Uttarakhand BJP, often surrounded by controversy. Elected in 2017 from Haridwar's Jwalapur constituency, he holds significant sway at both district and mandal levels. His political career hasn't been free of scandals— in 2021, a female BJP worker accused him of rape and blackmail, leading to an investigation. Later in 2024, cases were filed against him under the Dowry Prohibition Act and SC/ST Act. Most recently, his alleged second marriage led the party to expel him for six years, casting a shadow over his political future.
