Congress in UP suffers setback after Naseemuddin Siddiqui quits

Lucknow: Senior Congress leader and former Uttar Pradesh minister Naseemuddin Siddiqui has resigned from the Indian National Congress. The decision triggered political discussion ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. Siddiqui’s exit is being seen as a setback for the party in regions where he held influence, particularly among minority and grassroots voters.

In his resignation letter addressed to the Congress high command, including party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Siddiqui stated that he was unhappy with the lack of meaningful work assigned to him during his tenure in the party.

Speaking to the media after resigning, Siddiqui said he did not seek positions or symbolic respect but wanted to work actively at the grassroots level.

“No grudges against Rahul Gandhi and state [Congress] president Ajay Rai, who is like my brother,” he said in a statement, adding that he felt sidelined and unable to connect with people as he had done in the past.

"I wanted work, not respect," he added. 

He clarified that his decision was not driven by personal differences with senior leaders and expressed continued respect for leaders such as Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and Mallikarjun Kharge. Siddiqui also indicated that he would consult his supporters before deciding on his future political course.

However, media have reported that Siddiqui is believed to have been unhappy with the Congress leadership. On January 20, Siddiqui could not meet Rahul Gandhi despite rushing to the Lucknow airport from Moradabad to meet him while the latter was en route to his constituency of Rae Bareli.

The Congress party, while acknowledging Siddiqui’s resignation, downplayed its impact on the organisation. Party leaders said the Congress remains focused on strengthening its structure in Uttar Pradesh and preparing for upcoming elections.

Sources within the party have been reported as saying by the media that Siddiqui had been given respect and recognition, but organisational decisions are taken collectively, keeping broader political strategy in mind.

The party has not officially commented on Siddiqui’s allegations regarding lack of work but indicated that efforts to rebuild the organisation in the state will continue.

Siddiqui’s resignation comes at a time when the Congress is attempting to revive its presence in Uttar Pradesh after a series of electoral setbacks. His departure, along with several supporters, may temporarily affect the party’s outreach in certain regions.

Political observers say the move highlights internal challenges within opposition parties in Uttar Pradesh, particularly regarding leadership roles and ground-level engagement.

While Siddiqui has not announced his next political move, speculation continues about possible alignments with other regional parties. Any future decision is expected after consultations with his supporters.

Tags : Naseemuddin Siddiqui, Congress, UP, Assembly Elections, Rahul Gandhi