By Arun Pratap Singh
Garhwal Post Bureau
Dehradun, 4 May: BJP MLA from Gadarpur, Arvind Pandey today categorically dismissed the letter allegedly written by him and addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi as fake. Addressing a press conference at the BJP State Headquarters here today, four days after the alleged letter went viral, Pandey accused the opposition of orchestrating a campaign to malign both his personal image and that of the BJP. It may be recalled that the controversy triggered intense political sparring over the past few days, and today finally Pandey broke his silence and offered a detailed clarification before the media. BJP State General Secretary Deepti Rawat also addressed the press conference.
It may be recalled that the issue had gained prominence after a letter allegedly written by Pandey surfaced online, purportedly containing references to his dissatisfaction and allegations of neglect and harassment by his party. The development was swiftly seized upon by the Congress and State Congress President Ganesh Godiyal had even displayed a photo copy of the alleged letter publicly during a press conference. Godiyal had launched a scathing attack on the BJP government and organisation, going to the extent of demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The episode led to widespread speculation about internal dissent within the BJP, particularly regarding Pandey’s reported displeasure with the party leadership.
However, Pandey today firmly rejected all such claims and claimed that the viral letter is entirely fabricated and misleading and was never written by him. Addressing the media-persons, he stated that no such letter had been written by him to the Prime Minister or to any other authority, and described the document as part of a deliberate attempt to create confusion and damage the party’s credibility. He reminded that he has been associated with the BJP for a long time and continues to receive due respect within the organisation. He also claimed that there are no differences between him and the party leadership.
Taking strong exception to the manner in which the issue was amplified, Pandey termed the actions of Ganesh Godiyal as baseless and irresponsible. He alleged that the Congress had relied on a forged document to mislead the public and vitiate the political atmosphere. He said such acts were not only objectionable but also detrimental to democratic values. He insisted that political discourse should not be based on falsehoods and fabricated material. He reiterated his commitment to the party, describing himself as a disciplined worker and a swayamsevak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), who would never indulge in any activity that undermines the government or the organisation.
Responding to questions regarding the delay in his reaction, Pandey commented that it is not necessary to respond immediately to every allegation, but added that however when misinformation is spread with malicious intent, it then becomes important to set the record straight. He also stated that he had spoken to state BJP president Mahendra Bhatt and placed his position clearly before the leadership. The MLA added that he would abide by any directions issued by the party in connection with the matter.
Pandey, while elaborating on the broader political context, also referred to the BJP’s latest electoral successes in several states and he described the results as indicative of the party’s growing acceptance and the public’s increasing trust in its governance. He alleged that the Congress, unsettled by the BJP’s expanding influence, is attempting to create controversies based on unfounded allegations. Reaffirming the party’s commitment to transparency and accountability, he said any attempt at disinformation would be met with a firm response
The BJP, meanwhile, appeared to rally behind the party MLA and mounted a counter-attack on the Congress, demanding an unconditional apology for attempting to defame the party through what it described as a false narrative. BJP State general secretary Deepti Rawat said it is evident that the Congress is trying to tarnish the BJP’s image by relying on a fake letter. She alleged that the opposition is resorting to such tactics to divert attention from its own internal discord and factionalism. She emphasised that Pandey is a loyal and disciplined party worker and she expressed confidence that he could not have engaged in any conduct detrimental to the party’s image or organisational discipline.
Rawat further asserted that with Pandey having clarified his position, all misconceptions surrounding the issue stood removed, and the Congress’s attempt at negative politics has once again been exposed before the people. She criticised the opposition for indulging in what she termed as irresponsible politics, asserting that such actions erode public trust and undermine healthy democratic engagement. She also indicated that the party organisation is taking the matter seriously and would review all aspects of the controversy to ensure that the truth is established.
On this occasion, State General Secretary Kundan Parihar and State Co-Media In-charge Rajendra Singh Negi were among those present.
