The Samajwadi Party (SP) has decided to end its collaboration with the Indian Political Action Committee (I-PAC) for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. This decision comes in light of several factors, including the recent arrest of I-PAC director Vinesh Chandel in connection with alleged financial irregularities related to the Bengal coal smuggling case, which has raised doubts about the firm's credibility and operational capacity. Additionally, the SP's concerns were heightened by the poor electoral performances of parties I-PAC had previously advised, notably the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) in Tamil Nadu. Following these setbacks, I-PAC has scaled back its operations in Bengal, closing offices and reducing staff, which has strained its relationship with TMC leaders. The SP's leadership, particularly Akhilesh Yadav, is reportedly leaning towards gathering insights from its own party workers rather than depending on external consultants. Despite this setback, the SP is expected to engage another firm, likely composed of former I-PAC employees, to assist in its campaign efforts as it prepares for the elections.