30-08-2023 : BSP chief Mayawati has definitively quashed all speculation regarding her party’s potential alignment with either the NDA or the Opposition’s INDIA coalition. Emphatically stating that the policy stances of both these fronts are fundamentally incongruent with the principles of the BSP, Mayawati asserted her party’s decision to chart its own course in the forthcoming Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections.
Taking to the social media platform X, Mayawati underscored her reasons for eschewing alliances with either the NDA or INDIA. According to her, the coalitions primarily comprise parties that are characterized by their anti-poor, casteist, and communal leanings, favoring the interests of the wealthy elite. These stances stand in stark contrast to the values and priorities that the BSP holds dear and has consistently championed. Mayawati firmly stated, “So, there is no question of contesting the election by forging an alliance with them.”
Elaborating on her party’s strategy, Mayawati revealed that the BSP will independently contest the upcoming Lok Sabha elections and state Assembly general elections, echoing a similar approach taken in 2007. She emphasized that the BSP’s approach would revolve around unifying the often-neglected segments of society through mutual brotherhood, steering clear of the opportunistic maneuvers often associated with political opponents. She urged the media not to perpetuate misconceptions and false narratives.
Furthermore, the former chief minister urged BSP’s dedicated cadre to fortify the organization by conducting grassroots meetings in villages, aimed at broadening the party’s support base across the ‘Sarv Samaj.’
Mayawati’s recent stance marks a departure from the past, as the party had previously entered into alliances. The BSP had aligned with the SP in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections and joined hands with Congress in the 2017 assembly polls. However, the outcomes of these partnerships did not meet expectations, with Mayawati arguing that the BSP had suffered more losses than gains due to vote transfers to its alliance partners.
Recently, the BSP made headlines for expelling senior leader Imran Masood, a prominent figure in the party from western Uttar Pradesh. The expulsion was attributed to alleged anti-party activities and indiscipline. Imran Masood’s absence from a meeting of BSP leaders and office-bearers chaired by Mayawati, coupled with his praise for Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, raised concerns within the party.