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BSP Leader Harbilas Singh Shot Dead in Ambala, One Injured

January 25, 2025, 12:39 pm

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader from Haryana’s Ambala, Harbilas Singh Rajjumajra, was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Naraingarh on Friday evening, police confirmed on Saturday.

Rajjumajra was traveling in a car with his two friends, Puneet and Gugal. The armed attackers opened fire at the vehicle leaving Rajjumajra critically injured, while Puneet received bullet injuries. The victims were taken to PGIMER, Chandigarh, where Rajjumajra was declared dead the same night. According to sources, Puneet is stable.

The attackers have not been identified yet. SHO Naraingarh, Lalit Kumar, reached the spot immediately to start an investigation. Superintendent of Police, Ambala, S.S. Bhoria said that a special police team has been formed to arrest the culprits.

Local BSP leaders in Ambala have condemned the incident and called for the immediate action of the authorities to arrest the attackers.

Political Impact of the Incident

Rajjumajra was a significant political figure in the region and had contested the Naraingarh assembly elections last year. His untimely death has sent shockwaves through Haryana’s political community, especially in Ambala and Naraingarh, where he was actively involved in local politics.

The incident has caused many to raise concerns about the security of political leaders in the region. BSP supporters have vowed to seek justice for Rajjumajra and demand accountability for the growing violence targeting politicians.

Pressure On Authority

The police investigation continues with additional security deployed to Naraingarh post the incident. Community leaders and political groups are calling for speedy redress for confidence in the state’s law and order.

BSP Chief Mayawati Backs ‘One Nation One Election’ After Union Cabinet Endorsement

September 18, 2024, 8:14 pm

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati has expressed support for the ‘One Nation One Election’ system following the Union Cabinet’s approval of the high-level committee’s recommendations. The committee, chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind, proposed holding simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha, state assemblies, and local bodies.

Mayawati, in a statement on X, welcomed the Cabinet’s decision, noting that while the BSP supports the proposal, the objectives of implementing ‘One Nation One Election’ must prioritize national and public interests.

The comprehensive report, presented to President Droupadi Murmu, highlights the benefits of simultaneous elections, including reduced political uncertainty, enhanced policy stability, and economic advantages such as lower election-related costs. The report also outlines provisions for handling scenarios like a hung House or a no-confidence motion, specifying that any fresh elections would align with the unexpired term of the previous House.

The report, the result of 191 days of research and consultations, suggests synchronizing municipal and panchayat elections with national and state elections. However, this proposal requires ratification by at least half of the states.

The committee’s recommendations aim to improve voter confidence, streamline the electoral process, and strengthen India’s democratic framework.

WIll BSP’s reservation plank pay off?

August 27, 2024, 6:12 am

The by-election of 10 assembly seats in UP may be another test case of new strategy of BSP politics.

The result of 2024 parliamentary election may be read in multiple ways. First of all, it is being read as sign and indication of a’ new churning’ which is taking place in the society and politics of the country. Secondly, this result also revealed that political mood of the public is always unpredictable by its nature. It gives shock to the psephologists and political analysts time to time. This kind of public mood brings ups and downs in the political scene of the country

I am going to tell a story of a political party-named Bahujan Samaj Party which emerged powerfull in the decade of 90s in the political scene of India, especially in North Indian states Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and in some part of Bihar. It also emerged as political alternative among Dalits, marginals of North-South and Central Part of India. After acquiring great success in few decades after its foundation, BSP started being politically weaken in its base political zones such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana and Punjab. This decline in the performance of the BSP in electoral politics, in fact produced loss of hope among marginal communities in these states. After 2007 UP assembly election BSP and Mayawati, suffered from electoral decline constantly and gradually.It is interesting to observe that in this 2024 parliamentary election result, Mayawati and her party Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) could not get any seat. Due to it, her party remained almost marginalised in the political discourse produced by 2024 parliamentary election.

However, Mayawati is a leader ,who has immense possibility of recovery of her influence in the political scene of the country. But due to various reasons she has faced constant decline in her electoral performances in last decades. The social alliance which Kanshi Ram, founder of BSP, and Mayawati formed in the decades of 90s which developed in latter few decades started eroding. Not only the social alliance which she formed and retained for long time got fractured but also her base vote started escalated. As we know, that the Dalit communities of Uttar Pradesh and other northern Indian states remained base vote of BSP and Mayawati since its foundation. Among Dalits, the castes like Jatav, jaiswar and chamar (l traditionally called leather worker) remained core voters of BSP politics. We observed that slowly BSP lost first of all its electoral support among non-Jatav Dalit communities. The same trend of decline BSP and Mayawati realised in its core base vote that is Jatav community. Kanshi Ram used to say that Chamar (Jatav)which is numerically largest and educated community is politically active community scattered from Punjab to Jharkhand state in Northern Part of India. According to him, this caste may serve as base community for BSP politics in India. Kanshiram was right for long time, but now we observe fracture among chamar and Jatav caste. A section of this community politically moved towards other political party such as Bhartiya Janata Party, Samajwadi Party and Congress.

During this kind of declining situation, a supreme court judgement on subclassification in reservation for schedule caste communities recently came. This judgement allowed the state governments to make provision of sub classification for most marginal and invisible SC and ST communities wherever required. One of the judges from the same Bench also suggested for making arrangements of creamy layer in the process of distributing reservation benefit for SC communities too. This created upheaval in Dalit mobilizational politics. The leaders, intellectuals, civil society organisation, opinion makers of dominant, influential and visible Dalit communities in various states started mobilising and opposing this hon’ble supreme court verdict. In this new political condition Mayawati took lead and strongly criticised this verdict created a hope among numerically largest SC communities that ‘only Bahan ji has potential to fight for reversal of this verdict. However, through this stand She lost trust among most marginal SC communities in various parts of India. But even then, she is planning to make reservation issue as one of main electoral issue in coming elections of Haryana and other North Indian state. In Uttar Pradesh, she is planning to make this issue as a main mobilisational strategy which may create check and control of constant erosion in her core base vote that is Jatav (chamar, jaiswar etc). The party thinks that this issue may cohesively organise its core base vote communities which are numerically largest in number, under the leadership of Mayawati.

It is true that this issue gave new life to Mayawati but it is difficult to say that it may bring entire Jatav community under her leadership. It is difficult because the political party like BJP, Smajwadi Party and Congress are trying to approach these communities by various kinds of representational and policy-oriented promises.

However, in this process she may lose her influence among non – jatav Dalit communities in north Indian state. The result of this strategy of BSP politics firstly in coming state assembly election in Haryana. The by election of 10 assembly seats in UP may be another test case of new strategy of BSP politics. Let’s see how BSP and Mayawati may succeed in reviving their politics.

Outrage in Chennai: Protests Erupt In Chennai Over BSP Leader K Armstrong Death

July 6, 2024, 2:40 pm

Supporters of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) in Tamil Nadu gathered outside the Rajiv Gandhi Government Hospital Mortuary, demanding justice for their slain leader, K Armstrong. Shouting slogans, they called for the arrest of those responsible for his murder and a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into the case. The demonstrators also demanded the resignation of Chief Minister M K Stalin, expressing distrust in the state government’s handling of the situation.

#WATCH | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | Police prevent protestors from entering hospital premises as Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) workers and supporters protest outside Rajiv Gandhi Government Hospital demanding a CBI probe of the murder of their state president, Armstrong. pic.twitter.com/RmmiP5yZ2M

— ANI (@ANI) July 6, 2024

The Attack on K Armstrong

K Armstrong, the Tamil Nadu unit president of the BSP, was brutally killed by a mob near his home in Perambur, Chennai, on Friday evening. His body was taken to the Rajiv Gandhi Government Hospital for an autopsy. The killing has sparked outrage, leading to shops and businesses in the area shutting down, and Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) buses halting services.

In response to the rising tension, Chennai police deployed heavy security outside the hospital. So far, 8 suspects have been detained, named as Ponnai Bala, Ramu, Thiruvengadam, Thirumalai, Selvaraj, Manivannan, Santhosh, and Arul, a special team has been formed to investigate the case. Additional Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) for North Chennai, Asra Garg, stated, “In the ongoing murder investigation, we have apprehended 8 suspects thus far. This marks the initial phase of our inquiry, with ten dedicated teams actively pursuing leads to uncover the perpetrators. Following the interrogation of these individuals, we aim to ascertain the motive behind the crime, noting the use of sharp weapons in the incident.”

Condemnation and Calls for Justice

The killing of K Armstrong has drawn widespread condemnation. BSP chief and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Mayawati, denounced the murder and demanded justice. She stated on social media, “The horrific Killing of K. Armstrong, the BSP president in Tamil Nadu, outside his residence in Chennai is deeply reprehensible and deserving of condemnation. Known as a prominent advocate and a powerful advocate for Dalit rights in the state, his killers must be swiftly brought to justice by the state authorities.”

The gruesome killing of Mr. K. Armstrong, Tamil Nadu state Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) president, outside his Chennai house is highly deplorable and condemnable. An advocate by profession, he was known as a strong Dalit voice in the state. The state Govt. must punish the guilty.

— Mayawati (@Mayawati) July 5, 2024

AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami also criticized the ruling DMK party over the incident, questioning the effectiveness of law and order in the state. He emphasized that the murder of such a prominent leader highlights serious issues within the state’s governance.

Public Outrage and Demands

The streets outside the hospital were filled with cries for immediate action, with protestors demanding a thorough investigation by the CBI. They also held Chief Minister M K Stalin accountable, calling for his resignation. Witnesses described a charged atmosphere, with emotions running high as supporters of Armstrong sought justice for their leader.

The case has brought to light significant concerns about safety and justice in Tamil Nadu. As the investigation continues, the public and political leaders alike await answers and accountability for this tragic event.

Mayawati Promises Cautious Consideration For Muslim Candidates After Poll Debacle

June 5, 2024, 12:35 pm

A day after the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) failed to secure any seats in the Lok Sabha elections, Mayawati expressed disappointment that the Muslim community did not support her party, despite their significant representation on the candidate list. She stated that the community did not understand her party, and henceforth, she would only consider Muslim candidates “after a lot of thought.”

This is not the first time the BSP has failed to win any seats in the Lok Sabha elections. In 2014, the party also did not open its account, and in 2019, they secured 10 seats due to an alliance with the Samajwadi Party.

The BSP had fielded 35 Muslim candidates.

Mayawati’s former ally, Akhilesh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party, managed to breach the BJP stronghold by securing 37 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh. Their INDIA bloc ally, the Congress, won six seats, including Rae Bareli and Amethi.

The Bharatiya Janata Party, which achieved landslide victories in the previous two general elections, won just 33 seats in Uttar Pradesh and only 240 seats nationally, falling 32 seats short of a simple majority. They had won 303 seats in 2019.

During the election campaign, the Samajwadi Party and the Congress had urged Mayawati to join the INDIA bloc, but she declined their invitations.

Mayawati announced that her party would conduct a thorough analysis to determine the reasons behind its poor performance in Uttar Pradesh.

Expressing her dissatisfaction with the lack of support from the Muslim community, who appeared to have voted for the INDIA bloc, she said the community did not understand her party.

“The Muslim community, which is an important part of the Bahujan Samaj Party, is not able to understand the BSP properly despite being given proper representation in the past elections and this time also in the Lok Sabha general elections. So, in such a situation, the party will give them a chance in the elections after a lot of thought so that the party does not suffer a huge loss in the future like this time,” Mayawati said, per PTI.

BSP Out Of BJP’s Line Of Fire in UP Elections, After Akash Removal

May 15, 2024, 12:29 pm

The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)’s magnate Mayawati has not been in the crosshairs of the ruling BJP in its campaign for the Lok Sabha elections in Uttar Pradesh.

This has been seen in the rallies of the key BJP campaigners – including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, national party president J P Nadda, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy CMs Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, and state party president Bhupendra Chaudhary – which they have been addressing across the state for several weeks.

Top BJP leaders have indicated in these remarks that the only parties in the opposition, in their eyes, are the Congress, the Samajwadi Party (SP), and its leaders—Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav, in particular.

PM Modi, Shah, and Adityanath have been criticizing Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul, Priyanka Gandhi, and party chief Mallikarjun Kharge in their rallies in Uttar Pradesh thus far. They have also been criticizing SP president Akhilesh Yadav for missing the Ram Temple consecration ceremony in Ayodhya on January 22 and for not going to the Temple since. To date, though, none of them has criticized Mayawati in this way.

On the other hand, in their campaign in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls – when the SP and the BSP had forged a pre-poll alliance – the BJP’s star campaigners including PM Modi, Shah and Adityanath had coined phrases like “Bua-Babua” or “Bua-Bhatija” to go after the then allies Mayawati and Akhilesh.

The BJP camp then proceeded to level accusations of corruption against the past BSP government and “gundagardi” against the previous SP regimes.

The results of the polls showed that the BJP’s total dropped from 71 seats in 2014 to 62 seats (out of the state’s 80 seats). Ten seats went to the BSP and five to the SP. But shortly after the election, Mayawati severed ties with Akhilesh.

Although it was not as harsh as it was in 2019, the BJP leaders nonetheless criticized Mayawati throughout the campaign for the 2022 UP Assembly elections.

This time, Mayawati has been criticizing the BJP together with the Congress and the SP at her election rallies in Uttar Pradesh in support of the BSP candidates.

But during the early stages of his campaigning, Mayawati’s nephew Akash Anand, 28, seemed to have his sights set squarely on the BJP, criticizing the administration on issues like joblessness, inadequate education, and the use of bulldozers, among other things.

This happened shortly after Akash was charged under provisions of the IPC and the Representation of the People Act by the Sitapur police for allegedly inciting hatred and enmity, among other offenses. Akash is said to have referred to the BJP government as “gaddaron ki sarkar” (the government of traitors) during his speech at a Sitapur rally on April 28.

Mayawati then dismissed Akash as the national coordinator of the party and her political heir “until he attains maturity.” Barely six months had passed since she had appointed him her successor.

The BJP leaders remained silent about both Mayawati’s action against Akash and his comments.
Akhilesh responded to Mayawati’s action on X by writing, “The BSP’s recent efforts to implement significant organizational changes are their own.”

Additionally, the chief of the SP pleaded with BSP supporters not to “waste” their votes. In his quest for support for his party’s candidates, he has recently been appealing to the “Bahujan samaj” as well.

Mayawati has been accused by the INDIA camp of being the “BJP’s B-team” due to her “soft stance” towards the ruling party, particularly after she sacked Akash. However, BJP insiders contend that their top party leaders’ attempt to avoid criticising Mayawati is a part of their strategy to win over Dalit sub-castes like Chamaar (Jatavs in west UP), Dhobi, Paasi, Ahirwaar, Kureel, Dohre, Dom, Dusadh, Kharwar, and Mushar – who significantly contribute to over 40 constituencies in central and eastern UP.

Mayawati has fielded 20 Muslim candidates out of the 80 BSP candidates.

Chaudhary Basheer, the BSP’s candidate for Firozabad, has questioned her Muslim-Dalit formula, nevertheless. Basheer allegedly concedes defeat in a recent video that went viral following the third round of voting on May 7, claiming that the Muslim community supported the SP and not him.

The SP general secretary Ramgopal Yadav’s son Akshay is the candidate in the Firozabad seat dominated by the Muslim and Yadav voters.

In seats where Muslim-Dalit or Muslim-OBC (particularly Yadav) votes predominate, Mayawati has nominated Muslim candidates.

Aonla, Pilibhit, Kannauj, Moradabad, Etah, Badaun, Aonla, Ambedkar Nagar, and Shravasti are among the seats having caste equations. Azamgarh, Maharajganj, Sant Kabir Nagar, and Domariyaganj. In each of these seats, the SP has not fielded a Muslim candidate. But the BSP contenders running for these seats include, not engaged in a constant battle with the SP or the BJP.

As a result, observers claim that the BSP’s plan to get the upper hand through the Muslim-OBC or Muslim-Dalit equations did not seem to be successful.

Additionally, keeping Akash off the campaign trail has hurt the BSP because Mayawati might not be able to independently campaign for the party’s candidates in the 41 constituencies that will go to polls in the last three stages.

Akash Anand, Bridging the Gap or Plummeting into the Abyss

May 9, 2024, 4:50 pm

Akash Anand is a young Supporter of Baba Saheb’s vision, the successor of BSP Leader Mayawati and son of MP Anand Kumar. He is the face of Bahujan Samaj Party.

The beginning of his political occurrence took place in 2017, at a rally in Saharanpur. He is prepared for 14 long years by his aunt Mayawati. Thus, in December 2023, Aakash was declared as the party’s apparent heir. Mr Aanand got married to Dr Pragya Siddharth, daughter of former BSP MP Ashok Siddharth. The man seems to bring spring into the party’s barren land with its new energy and youth involvement. His major manifestoes lie towards bringing Dalits justice and opportunity as the party stands for. He was given the responsibility to manage the social media account and the young successor is fulfilling promises.

He expanded his hand beyond Uttar Pradesh to MP, Chattisgarh, and Telangana. As Mayawati mentioned to lead with UP and Uttarakhand whereas Anand ji will lead with the rest of the states. His idea to drag his reach is different and grounded. He invested time with college students of Aligarh Muslim University and Delhi University to take hold of young supporters cost-effectively.

In an interview with Press Trust of India, he was found not guilty of the fact of calling out BJP and PM Modi as Dictator. Furthermore, if one analyses the tussle between BJP and BSP. Margins are corresponding in the ongoing election, as there is a noticeable shift in the strategies of SP and BSP, mirroring aspects of the BJP’s approach. Both parties have reduced the allocation of tickets to their traditional caste bases. For instance, the SP has allocated only five tickets to Yadav community members, while the BSP has also decreased the number of tickets given to Jatav candidates. Although the BSP allocated 30 per cent of its tickets to Muslim candidates in UP, the SP has deviated from its previous pattern, with Muslim candidates, the party’s second most important voting bloc, receiving only 7 per cent of the tickets. With the change in pattern, an elevation in winning seats can be registered. Hence, Aakash Anand’s occupancy can either seep high or dig deep.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BSP Releases List Of 2 Candidates In UP

May 9, 2024, 12:46 pm

The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) announced two additional candidates from Uttar Pradesh for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections on Thursday, marking the 14th list of candidates released by the party.

According to a statement, Shubh Narayan Chauhan has been nominated as the BSP candidate for the Kushinagar Lok Sabha seat, while Sandesh Yadav will contest from the Deoria Lok Sabha seat.

Both Kushinagar and Deoria constituencies are scheduled to vote in the seventh and final phase of the Lok Sabha elections on June 1.

Mayawati Removes Nephew Akash Anand as BSP National Coordinator and Her ‘Successor’

May 7, 2024, 11:30 pm

Former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati made a significant announcement on Tuesday, removing her nephew Akash Anand from his position as national coordinator and her political successor. This decision, she stated, was made in the “larger interest” of the party, citing the need for Anand to attain “full maturity” before holding such responsibilities.

Mayawati emphasized the BSP’s dual role as both a political party and a movement dedicated to the ideals of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar and social change championed by Kanshi Ram. She underscored the importance of continuing this legacy and preparing a new generation to carry it forward.

While Anand’s father, Anand Kumar, will continue his duties within the party, Mayawati clarified that Anand’s removal from his position is a strategic move to ensure the party’s long-term goals are met. She expressed her commitment to promoting others within the party while acknowledging Anand’s contribution to the movement.

Mayawati reiterated the BSP’s readiness to make sacrifices for the party’s advancement and the broader Ambedkarite movement. Despite this decision, she affirmed her determination to propel the BSP forward under the principles of Baba Saheb Dr Ambedkar.

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: A Glimpse of the States and UTs Heading to Polls in the First Phase

April 18, 2024, 7:41 pm

The ongoing massive democratic process in India involves voters commencing their participation on Friday to select 543 Members of Parliament in a seven-phase election, remarkable for its scale and logistics, encompassing every voter across the vast and diverse country.

The first phase, occurring tomorrow, will cover 102 constituencies across 21 states and union territories. This year’s Lok Sabha election, taking place from April 19 to June 1, marks the second-longest polling period in India’s electoral history. The previous general elections in 2019 were also conducted in seven phases. The voting process will extend to April 26, May 7, May 13, May 20, May 25, and June 1, with the election results announced on June 4.

Additionally, new assemblies will be elected in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha. Various political parties have vigorously campaigned, with the BJP-led NDA aiming for a third consecutive term under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, while the opposition INDIA bloc seeks to remove the BJP-led alliance from power. Rigorous security measures have been implemented by the Election Commission.

The first phase covers seats in multiple states and union territories, with Bihar, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh witnessing voting across all seven phases starting April 19. However, polling will occur in a single phase on April 19 in some regions such as Tamil Nadu, Sikkim, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Lakshadweep, Puducherry, Meghalaya, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

The election schedule was announced by the Election Commission of India on March 16, which also includes bypolls to 26 assembly constituencies alongside the Lok Sabha and four state assembly polls. Bypolls will be held in the Ramnagar seat in Tripura and the Vilavancode seat in Tamil Nadu on April 19. The first phase boasts the highest number of parliamentary constituencies among all phases.

Approximately 8.4 crore male voters, 8.23 crore female voters, and 11,371 third-gender electors are eligible to vote in the first phase of Lok Sabha polls, according to the Election Commission’s estimates.

Key contenders and constituencies in the Phase 1 of Lok Sabha elections:

In Uttar Pradesh, voting will take place in eight out of the total 80 parliamentary constituencies on April 19.

1. Pilibhit: Jitin Prasada (BJP) faces Bhagwant Saran Gangwar (SP) and Anis Ahmed Khan (BSP).
2. Saharanpur: Raghav Lakhanpal (BJP) is pitted against Majid Ali (BSP) and Imran Masood (Congress).
3. Kairana: Pradeep Kumar (BJP) faces Sripal Singh (BSP) and Iqra Hasan (SP).
4. Muzaffarnagar: Sanjeev Balyan (BJP) is contesting against Harindra Malik (SP) and Dara Singh Prajapati (BSP).
5. Rampur: Ghanshyam Lodhi (BJP) faces Zeeshan Khan (BSP).
6. Moradabad: Sarvesh Singh (BJP) versus Mohd. Irfan Saifi (BSP).
7. Bijnor: Chandan Chauhan (RLD) is contesting against Vijendra Singh (BSP) and Yashvir Singh (SP).
8. Nagina: Om Kumar (BJP) faces Surendra Pal Singh (BSP), Manoj Kumar (SP), and Chandra Shekhar Azad (Azad Samaj Party).

Maharashtra has 48 Lok Sabha seats and voting will take place in five constituencies tomorrow.

1. Nagpur: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari (BJP) is pitted against Congress leader Vikas Thakare.
2. Chandrapur: Sudhir Mungantiwar (BJP) is contesting against Pratibha Dhanorkar (Congress).
3. Bhandara-Gondia: Sitting MP Sunil Mendhe (BJP) faces Dr. Prashant Patole (Congress).
4. Gadchiroli-Chimur: Ashok Nete (BJP) is facing Namdev Kirsan (Congress) and Hitesh Pandurang Madavi (VBA).

West Bengal has 42 Lok Sabha constituencies and voting will take place in three seats tomorrow.

1. Cooch Behar: Incumbent MP Nishith Pramanik (BJP) is pitted against Jagadish Chandra Burma Basunia (TMC) and Pia Roy Chowdhury (Congress).
2. Alipurduars: Manoj Tigga (BJP) is in the fray against Prakash Chik Baraik (TMC).
3. Jalpaiguri: Jayanta Kumar Roy (BJP) is contesting against Nirmal Chandra Roy (TMC) and Debraj Barman (CPI-M).

All 39 seats of Tamil Nadu and one seat of Puducherry will go in for polls tomorrow. Some of the key seats include

1. Coimbatore: State BJP chief K Annamalai is in fray against Ganapathy P Rajkumar (DMK) and Singai Ramachandran (AIADMK).
2. Thoothukudi: Kanimozhi (DMK) is contesting against R Sivasami Velumani (AIADMK).
3. Chennai South: BJP has fielded former Telangana Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan. She is facing DMK leader and incumbent MP Thamizhachi Thangapandian. AIADMK has fielded Jayavardhan.
4. Krishnagiri: Vidhya Rani, the daughter of slain sandalwood smuggler Veerappan is contesting from Krishnagiri constituency. She has been fielded by Naam Tamilar Katchi and will face C Narasimhan (BJP) and K Gopinath (Congress).
5. Chennai Central: Dayanidhi Maran (DMK) is facing Vinoj P Selvam (BJP) and B Parthasarathy (DMDK).
6. Nilgiris: A Raja (DMK) is contesting against Union Minister and BJP leader L Murugan. AIADMK has given a ticket to Lokesh Tamilselvan.
7. Sivaganga: Devanathan Yadav (BJP) is in the fray against Congress sitting MP Karti Chidambaram and A Xavier (AIADMK).

In Assam, five out of the 14 Lok Sabha seats will undergo elections in the initial phase:

1. Dibrugarh: Sarbananda Sonowal (BJP) will compete against Lurinjyoti Gogoi (INDIA bloc).
2. Jorhat: Topon Kumar Gogoi (BJP) is challenging Gaurav Gogoi (Congress).
3. Kaziranga: Kamakhya Prasad Tasa (BJP) is facing Roselina Tirkey (Congress).
4. Lakhimpur: Pradan Baruah (BJP) is against Uday Shankar Hazarika (Congress).
5. Sonitpur: Ranjit Dutta (BJP) is contesting against Premlal Ganju.

In Bihar, four out of 40 Lok Sabha constituencies will go to the polls tomorrow:

1. Aurangabad: Sushil Kumar Singh (BJP) versus Abhay Kushwaha (RJD).
2. Gaya: Kumar Sarvjeet (RJD) versus Jitan Ram Manjhi (HAM).
3. Jamui: Archana Kumari (RJD) versus Arun Bharti (LJP-Ram Vilas).
4. Nawada: Shrawan Kumar (RJD) versus Vivek Thakur (BJP).

In Madhya Pradesh, six out of the state’s 29 Lok Sabha seats will see polling tomorrow:

1. Chhindwara: Nakul Nath (Congress) versus Vivek Bunty Sahu (BJP).
2. Balaghat: Bharti Pardhi (BJP) versus Samrat Saraswat (Congress).
3. Jabalpur: Ashish Dubey (BJP) versus Dinesh Yadav (Congress).
4. Mandla: Faggan Singh Kulaste (BJP) versus Omkar Singh Markam (Congress).
5. Shahdol: Himadri Singh (BJP) versus Phunde Lal Singh Marko (Congress).
6. Sidhi: Rajesh Mishra (BJP) versus Kamaleshwar Patel (Congress).

In Uttarakhand, all five Lok Sabha seats will have polling tomorrow:

1. Haridwar: Virendra Rawat (Congress) versus Trivendra Singh Rawat (BJP).
2. Pauri Garhwal: Ganesh Godiyal (Congress) versus Anil Baluni (BJP).
3. Tehri Garhwal: Mala Rajya Laxmi Shah versus Jot Singh Gunsola (Congress).
4. Nainital-Udham Singh Nagar: Ajay Bhatt (BJP) versus Prakash Joshi (Congress).
5. Almora: Ajay Tamta versus Pradeep Tamta (Congress).

Voting in 12 out of the 25 constituencies of Rajasthan will occur in the first phase tomorrow. Key contests include:

1. Bikaner: Arjun Ram Meghwal (BJP) versus Madan Gopal Meghwal (Congress).
2. Churu: Devendra Jhajharia (BJP) versus Rahul Kaswan (Congress).
3. Nagaur: Jyoti Mirdha versus Hanuman Beniwal (RLP).
4. Sikar: Swami Sumedhanand versus Amra Ram (CPI(M)).
5. Jhunjhunu: Shubhkaran Choudhary versus Brijendra Singh Ola (Congress).

In Andaman and Nicobar Islands, incumbent MP Kuldeep Rai Sharma (Congress) faces Bishnu Pada Ray (BJP).

Arunachal Pradesh’s two constituencies will have polling in the first phase:

1. Arunachal Pradesh West: Nabam Tuki (Congress) versus Kiren Rijiju (BJP).
2. Arunachal Pradesh East: Bosiram Siram (Congress) versus Tapir Gao (BJP).

In Chhattisgarh, which has 11 Lok Sabha seats, voting will take place in the first phase in the Naxal-affected seat of Bastar where Kawasi Lakhma (Congress) is against Mahesh Kashyap (BJP).

In Manipur, elections will take place twice in one constituency. Voters in Outer Manipur will cast their votes over two days due to the special situation owing to ethnic violence witnessed by the state.

While voting will take place in Inner Manipur constituency on April 19 (phase 1), outer Manipur will vote on two dates – April 19 (phase 1) and April 26 (phase 2).

Of the two Lok Sabha seats in Tripura, the constituency of Tripura (West), which includes the state capital of Agartala, will go to the polls tomorrow. BJP nominee Biplab Kumar Deb is contesting against state Congress chief Ashish Kumar Saha.

BSP Leader Mayawati: Party believes in demonstrating actions rather than just making statements

April 11, 2024, 10:48 pm

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader Mayawati stated on Thursday that the BSP does not issue election manifestos, asserting the party’s focus on action rather than mere rhetoric.

“Our party believes in demonstrating actions rather than just making statements. That’s why we never issue election manifestos. The strongest evidence of this approach lies in our track record in Uttar Pradesh, where we formed the government four times without releasing any election manifesto. We worked for the welfare of the extremely poor, marginalised, and Dalit communities in Uttar Pradesh without relying on mere promises,” she said at a public rally in Nagpur.

She called on the public to support her party and cautioned against being influenced by the BJP’s persuasive strategies. She added, “Just as we formed a government in Uttar Pradesh without issuing election manifestos, we will work similarly if we come to power at the national level.”

“As the opposition parties release their election manifestos, especially those by the BJP, it is crucial for you to distance yourself from their persuasive tactics. In the interest of the nation and the state, you should cast your vote for our party, the BSP, rather than giving it to the BJP, Congress, or any other ruling or opposition party. Just as we formed a government in Uttar Pradesh without issuing election manifestos, we will work similarly if we come to power at the national level,” she said.

Additionally, she appealed to voters in Maharashtra to assist BSP candidates in securing victory in the election.

“In Maharashtra and across the entire country, let’s press the button with the elephant symbol, the emblem of BR Ambedkar’s ideology, and lead our candidates to victory,” she said.

Maharashtra boasts 48 Lok Sabha seats, the second-largest tally after Uttar Pradesh. In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP clinched victory in 23 out of the 25 seats it contested, in partnership with the undivided Shiv Sena.

The Lok Sabha elections in Maharashtra are scheduled to take place in five phases on April 19, April 26, May 7, May 13, and May 20. Vote counting is slated for June 4.

During the 2019 elections, the BJP emerged as the leading party in Maharashtra, securing 23 seats, while the Shiv Sena followed closely with 18 seats.

BSP MP Ritesh Pandey Switches Over To BJP

February 25, 2024, 1:57 pm

In another major ticket swap ahead of the general election, Lok Sabha MP Ritesh Pandey left the Mayawati-led Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) today and joined the BJP. The 42-year-old holds the Ambedkar Nagar parliamentary seat in Uttar Pradesh. His father, Rakesh Pandey, is a Samajwadi Party MLA in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly.

Addressing the media after joining the BJP, Mr Pandey stated that he was inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India and had joined the party to strive toward that aim.

This morning, Mr Pandey posted on X the resignation letter he sent to BSP chief Mayawati. The letter praises her for allowing him to represent the party in Lok Sabha. “I received your guidance from the moment I entered public life through BSP. The party’s grassroots workers handheld me as I learnt to walk through the corridors of power,” the letter states.

It then goes on to address the elephant in the room. “For a long time, I am not being called for meetings. I am also not part of leadership discussions. I have tried numerous times to meet you and senior leaders, but to no avail. I have reached a conclusion that the party no longer needs my service and my presence. I am not left with any option other than resigning from the party’s primary membership. The decision to sever ties with the party is emotionally difficult,” he said.

According to NDTV sources, Mr Pandey communicated with BJP national general secretary Sunil Bansal. The BJP has apparently offered to run him for the seat he now holds.

Shortly after Mr Pandey announced his resignation, Mayawati started a thread on X that is interpreted as a response to the MP’s charges. The BSP, she claimed, was a “movement” dedicated to the cause of anti-Dalit icon BR Ambedkar. “That’s why this party’s ideology, functioning and selection of candidates is different from other capitalist parties,” she wrote.

In a jab at the outgoing MP, she stated that the party’s MPs should reflect on whether they cared for the people in their constituencies and gave them time.

“They must also introspect if they followed the party’s directions,” she said. “Is it possible to give tickets to Lok Sabha MPs when they roamed around for their selfish goals and remained a part of negative discussions? The party’s interests are paramount,” she said, indicating that Mr Pandey may not have got a BSP poll ticket if he stayed on.

Mr Ritesh Pandey, an alumnus of London’s European Business School, has been a prominent parliamentarian since being elected MP in 2019. He has articulated his party’s positions on several subjects. Surprisingly, his departure from the BSP comes just weeks after he joined several other Opposition MPs for lunch with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Parliament canteen.

Mr Pandey had also shared pictures of the lunch meeting. “It was truly an honour to be invited by the Prime Minister @narendramodi ji for lunch today and learn how he used his insights from the 2001 Bhuj Earthquake to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. What an insightful discussion – thank you for having us over!,” he had said.

BSP Chief Mayawati: Yet to Decide Whether to Attend Ayodhya’s Ram Temple Event

January 15, 2024, 4:10 pm

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati, on her 68th birthday, expressed gratitude for the invitation to the consecration ceremony at Ayodhya’s Ram temple scheduled for January 22. However, she clarified that a decision on her attendance is pending due to ongoing party commitments.

Mayawati, addressing a press conference, stated, “I have received the invitation for the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ (consecration ceremony) program to be held on January 22 in Ayodhya. I have not taken any decision yet on attending the program because right now I am very busy with my party’s programs.”

Asserting the BSP’s secular stance, Mayawati emphasized that her party has no objections to the Ayodhya Ram temple event and welcomes it. She added, “In the future, if any such program is held regarding Babri Masjid, our party will have no objection to that also.”

“Our party is a secular party and respects all religions equally. No matter what religion it is. Our party has not opposed anyone. The Bahujan Samaj Party is the only party in the country that is secular,” she affirmed.

Mayawati reassured that the decision on her attendance at the ceremony would be communicated to the media once finalized. The BSP leader’s remarks came amid preparations for the consecration ceremony, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to participate, along with thousands of attendees, including seers. The ceremony holds significance as it marks the formal consecration of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, following the Supreme Court’s 2019 verdict on the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title suit.

BSP MP, former party MLA likely to join BJP ahead of Lok Sabha polls

December 28, 2023, 4:27 pm

It is probable that Sangeeta Azad, the MP for the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) from the Lalganj constituency, and Azad Ari Mardan, the former MLA of the party, will join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) prior to the Lok Sabha elections. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the MP met in the nation’s capital earlier today. It is believed that the action is a component of the BJP’s plan to fortify its organization in the Purvanchal area. For the BJP, the Purvanchal region is crucial because it encompasses cities like Ayodhya, Gorakhpur, Varanasi, and so on. In addition to its spiritual importance, Ayodhya is the hub of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, which propelled the party to prominence. Since Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister, personally represents Gorakhpur.

In the Lok Sabha polls in 2019, Sangeeta Azad was pitted against BJP’s sitting MP Neelam Sonkar and the former won by a huge margin of 61,000 votes.
Meanwhile, Mayawati’s BSP has lost many MPs. Earlier, the party supremo expelled its Amroha MP, Danish Ali, for engaging in “anti-party” activities.
BSP MP from the Jaunpur constituency, Shyam Singh Yadav, also met with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recently.
The Lok Sabha polls are scheduled to be held in 2024.
While Mayawati has indicated that her party will contest the polls alone, Akhilesh Yadav’s Samajwadi Party, which holds a significant share in the Purvanchal region, has a pact with the newly established INDIA bloc.

Jayant Choudhary ends speculation on BSP entry into I.N.D.I.A bloc

December 26, 2023, 1:06 am

Putting an end to the rumours of BSP joining the I.N.D.I.A bloc, RLD’s Jayant Choudhary stated, “Why should we talk about Mayawati when she doesn’t want to be a part of the I.N.D.I.A bloc?” This marks the first official announcement that the BSP will not be part of the alliance, and there are no ongoing talks to convince Mayawati otherwise. Choudhary, while addressing media clarified that there were no discussions about persuading the BSP to join the alliance during the INDIA bloc meeting.

As per sources, In the India Alliance meeting, tensions also surfaced between the SP and Congress on this matter. It is reported that SP President Akhilesh Yadav questioned whether Congress was in talks to include the BSP in the India Alliance. Congress must clarify its position, as the SP may reconsider its participation in the alliance. Subsequently, Congress informed Akhilesh that there is no intention of forming an alliance with the BSP in Uttar Pradesh, and the party will contest the Lok Sabha elections in UP under the leadership of Akhilesh Yadav.

An expert familiar with the BSP’s workings suggested that talks between Congress and the BSP may or may not have occurred, but the BSP typically plans its strategies almost a year before elections. If BSP had considered joining the alliance, it would have been decided earlier. Changing its strategy just four months before the elections seems unlikely for the BSP.

While BSP has not officially declared its affiliation with either the NDA or the India Alliance or its decision to contest alone, BSP Chief Mayawati responded to SP’s comments in the India Alliance meeting during a press conference. She stated that the remarks about BSP in the alliance meeting are inappropriate, emphasizing the unpredictability of future support needs. Mayawati argued that criticizing parties not included in the alliance, including the BSP, is unjustified, as one cannot foresee when their support might become necessary—a point illustrated by the SP’s own experience.

Mayawati Expresses Disappointment over Suspension of MPs: Calls it ‘Sad, Unfortunate’

December 21, 2023, 12:42 pm

Addressing a press conference in Lucknow on Thursday, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati expressed deep concern over the suspension of approximately 150 opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) in both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha. Characterizing this move as a regrettable incident in Parliamentary history, Mayawati emphasized that such actions undermine the credibility of the government and opposition alike.

Mayawati asserted, “Our party believes that the suspension of about 150 opposition MPs in both Houses during the current session of Parliament is neither good work nor a good record for the government or the opposition.” She described the development as unfortunate and suggested it could erode the public’s trust in the democratic process.

The suspension of 143 MPs—97 from the Lok Sabha and 46 from the Rajya Sabha—occurred due to disruptions and chaos, with the opposition demanding a statement from Union Minister Amit Shah regarding the recent Parliament security breach. Mayawati also criticized the viral video of suspended MPs mocking the Rajya Sabha Chairman, deeming it inappropriate.

During the press conference, Mayawati emphasized the need to preserve democratic parliamentary traditions, urging cooperation between the government and the opposition. She stressed the importance of involving the opposition in passing significant bills that impact the common people, asserting that responsibility for upholding parliamentary traditions lies with all parties collectively.

Commenting on the security breach incident, Mayawati called it a matter of serious concern. She advocated for strict legal action against those responsible for the breach, urging a collective effort to prevent such incidents in the future. Mayawati also highlighted the need for heightened vigilance by the intelligence department to avert security lapses.

The security breach, coincidentally on the anniversary of the 2001 Parliament terror attack, involved intruders entering the Lok Sabha chamber and releasing yellow gas before being subdued. Four individuals, facing charges under anti-terror laws, were taken into custody by the Delhi Police Special Cell. Additionally, a friend of one intruder has been detained for questioning in connection with the case.

Mayawati Slams Congress on OBC Reservation Implementation, Praises BSP

November 22, 2023, 6:16 pm

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati launched her party’s campaign for the Telangana assembly election on Wednesday, taking a dig at the previous Congress government. Mayawati asserted that the OBC community obtained reservations due to the efforts of the BSP, not the Congress party.

Addressing a public rally in Telangana’s Suryapet constituency, Mayawati reminded voters that reservations for the OBC community were granted under the central government led by former Prime Minister VP Singh, following the recommendations of the Mandal Commission. She emphasized that the Congress government did not implement these reservations; it was the result of the BSP’s struggles and hard work.

Mayawati criticized Congress for not honouring Baba Saheb Ambedkar with the Bharat Ratna, a recognition bestowed by the BSP. She highlighted that it was the BSP that played a role in Baba Saheb Ambedkar receiving the highest civilian award. Mayawati also pointed out the Congress’s lack of acknowledgement and mourning after the death of Kanshi Ram, who carried forward the legacy of Baba Saheb.

Mayawati lashed out at the Telangana government, expressing concern about the oppression of the state’s weaker sections of society. Telangana will go to the polls on November 30, with the results expected on December 3. In the previous 2018 Assembly election, the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) won 88 of the 119 seats with a 47.4% vote share, while the Congress received only 19 votes.

Not right to forcefully implement UCC, says BSP chief Mayawati

July 2, 2023, 2:21 pm

Mayawati, the chief of the Bahujan Samaj Party, stated on Sunday that her party was not opposed to implementing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), which she believed would “lead to communal harmony,” but she chastised the Bharatiya Janata Party for “politicizing” the matter.

“Our party (BSP) is not against the implementation of UCC but we do not support the way BJP is trying to implement Uniform Civil Code in the country. It is not right to politicize this issue and forcefully implement UCC in the country,” Mayawati said at a press conference.

“The UCC will not weaken the country but strengthen the country and it will also lead to communal harmony….but people having faith on various religions live in the country. They have separate practices and customs and it should not be overlooked,” Mayawati added.

She emphasized that the UCC should not be imposed by force and that there should be broad agreement on the issue.

Mayawati further claimed that the BJP was dredging up the topic to shift public attention away from critical issues and troubles that they were facing. “There should be no politics surrounding the UCC….”Article 44 of the Constitution clearly states that the state shall endeavor to secure for the citizens of the country a Uniform Civil Code,” she added.

Mayawati’s statement came only days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi campaigned for the UCC during a speech in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The UCC is a proposal to create and enforce personal laws for citizens that will apply to all Indians regardless of caste, religion, or sexual orientation.

BSP to celebrate Mayawati’s birthday as ‘Jankalyankari Diwas’

January 15, 2023, 12:06 pm

The Bahujan Samaj Party will celebrate party chief Mayawati’s 67th birthday on January 15 as Jankalyankari Diwas. The party released a series of songs by Sonu Nigam, Kailash Kher, Udit Narayan, Javed Ali and Prince in the run-up to the birthday celebration, claiming her as a fighter for the rights of the deprived community.

Mayawati will release the 18th edition of her work – “A Travelogue of My Struggle-ridden Life and BSP Movement” in a programme organized by the party

BSP minister Yaqoob Qureshi, son held in Delhi

January 7, 2023, 12:03 pm

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) minister Yaqoob Qureshi has been arrested by the Uttar Pradesh Police from the Chandni Mahal area of Delhi for running an unlicensed business of meat packaging and processing. On Saturday with the Delhi Police, both the accused were held. Meanwhile, for their arrest, a reward was also announced by the Meerut Police. However, further details are awaited.

Mulayam Singh Yadav passes away at 82

October 10, 2022, 10:05 am

Mulayam Singh Yadav, a veteran politician and Samajwadi Party founder, passed away on Monday at Gurugram’s Medanta Hospital. He was 82.

Samajwadi Party supremo and former Uttar Pradesh CM Mulayam Singh Yadav passes away at the age of 82, confirms Akhilesh Yadav.

He was under treatment at Gurugram's Medanta hospital since last week. pic.twitter.com/qDYIuT5DcH
— ANI (@ANI) October 10, 2022

‘Muslim-sounding’ names of Gorakhpur wards changed, opposition reacts

September 4, 2022, 1:23 pm

Leaders of the Samajwadi Party and the Congress reacted angrily to a draught delimitation order issued by the Gorakhpur Municipal Corporation that changed “Muslim-sounding names” for almost a dozen wards. In Gorakhpur, there are now 80 wards, many of which are named after famous people and freedom fighters. The ward names were changed as part of the delimitation exercise.

The delimitation will be approved after the public has a week to raise any complaints, according to a top official on Saturday.

Shahab Ansari, the leader of the Samajwadi Party and a councillor for Ismailpur, alleged that the renaming was an effort to create polarisation.

According to Ansari, the party will meet on Sunday, and a delegation will meet with the district magistrate on Monday to voice its concern.

Talat Aziz, a leader in the Congress, referred to the experiment as a financial waste. The leader questioned, “I fail to see what the administration will accomplish with this exercise.”

According to Mayor Sitaram Jaiswal, new names inspire a sense of pride.

He claimed that wards were given names like Ashfaqullah Khan, Shiv Singh Chetri, Baba Gambhir Nath, Baba Raghavdas, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, and Madan Mohan Malviya in honour of prominent people.

Avinash Singh, the municipal commissioner, stated that objections may be filed to the additional chief secretary of the Lucknow Urban Development Department within a week. He said the delimitation would be accepted following the resolution of the objections.

Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, was born and raised in Gorakhpur, which will now have 80 wards.

Among the “Muslim-sounding names” that have been changed are Miya Bazar, Muftipur, Alinagar, Turkmanpur, Ismailpur, Rassolpur, Humayunpur North, Ghosipurva, Daudpur, Jafra Bazar, Qazipur Khurd, and Chaksa Hussain.

In accordance with the civic organization’s decree, Jafra Bazar will henceforth be referred to as Atma Ram Nagar, Ismailpur as Sahabganj, and Ilahi Bagh as Bandhu Singh Nagar.

BSP leader Mukhtar Ansari raided by ED, lodged in Banda jail

August 18, 2022, 2:29 pm

On Thursday, the Enforcement Directorate raided the premises of Mukhtar Ansari, leader of the Bahujan Samaj Party in Lucknow and Ghazipur, in the context of an alleged money laundering case.

Ansari is currently detained in Banda jail in Uttar Pradesh.

A total of eleven locations have been covered during the search sessions.

Mukhatar Ansari’s brother, Afzal Ansari, is also under suspicion. The investigating agency is raiding Afzal’s residence as well.