Samajwadi Party distanced itself from controversial leader Kamal Farooqi and claimed that he was already expelled from the Party. They also asked TV channels not to use the Party’s name while inviting Farooqui for debates.
“Farooqi was expelled from the Party but he is still participating in TV debates as party representative. Channels should not use SP’s name with him while inviting him on
debates,” SP National General Secretary Ramgopal Yadav informed through a press communiqué issued here on Tuesday.
It may be mentioned that Farooqi, who was party’s secretary, was sacked on September 5 over his controversial remarks on Indian Mujahideen co-founder Yasin Bhatkal. The expelled SP leader had said Bhatkal may have been arrested because he was a Muslim. He had later apologised for his remark, stating that his comments were misunderstood. Both Congress and BJP had slammed Farooqi for his comment, calling it ridiculous. Facing embarrassment, the SP took stern action against Farooqi for his remarks.