A major political controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh following remarks made by state minister and NISHAD Party chief Sanjay Nishad about the people of Ballia. His comments, labeling historical residents as 'middlemen' for the British, have drawn fierce backlash from local organizations, leading to protests and demands for legal action.
Minister's Controversial Statement at Party Workshop
Addressing party workers at a workshop for Assembly election preparations on November 29, 2025, Sanjay Nishad made pointed remarks about Ballia's history. He stated, "This is Ballia where people acted as middlemen (dalal) for the British and this system is prevalent till date. Because of this Ballia has been ruined."
He added a contrasting note, acknowledging, "Otherwise, it was the land of rebels that drew the British away and helped the country attain freedom." However, the primary allegation of 'dalali' (brokering) became the focal point of outrage.
Furious Backlash and Threats from Karni Sena
The reaction to the minister's words was swift and severe. Kamlesh Singh, the district president of the Karni Sena in Ballia, launched a scathing attack. He accused Nishad of trying to defame the 'land of martyrs.'
In a highly aggressive statement, Singh said, "Those who themselves sell Ballia are trying to defame the place... If I happen to meet him, I will snip his tongue for his remarks and if I am unable to do it, I would ask the youth of Ballia to do it for me." He further announced a reward of Rs 5 lakh for anyone who carried out this act, promising free legal aid in the ensuing case. He emphatically declared he would not tolerate any disrespect towards Ballia.
Protests Erupt and Political Condemnation Grows
Following the remarks, local organizations mobilized in protest. On Monday, December 1, demonstrators gathered demanding the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against Minister Sanjay Nishad. The situation escalated as protestors attempted to burn an effigy of the minister, prompting police intervention to control the crowd.
The condemnation crossed party lines. Veteran Samajwadi Party leader and former Leader of Opposition in the UP Assembly, Ram Gobind Chaudhary, criticized Nishad for his lack of knowledge. He reminded everyone that Ballia was among the first places in India to attain freedom from British rule and termed the use of such foul language by a minister as condemnable.
Despite multiple attempts, Sanjay Nishad could not be reached for his comments on the escalating controversy. The incident has stirred a significant debate on historical interpretation and political rhetoric in the region.
