In a significant blow to the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) just before the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, reports have emerged indicating that a total of 10 Members of Parliament (MPs) are considering leaving the party led by Mayawati. Among these MPs, sources suggest that four are intending to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with discussions reportedly underway between the MPs and BJP representatives. Notable figures allegedly in contact with the BJP include Shyam Singh Yadav, Ritesh Pandey, and Sangita Azad, though official confirmations are pending. Additionally, several other BSP MPs are reportedly exploring options with both the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the BJP.
Reasons Behind the Potential Departures
The MPs purportedly contemplating leaving BSP cite concerns over the party’s electoral prospects following Mayawati’s announcement of contesting the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections independently. According to sources, this decision by Mayawati to pursue a solo campaign has instilled apprehension among current MPs regarding their chances of securing victory. The move towards independence in the elections, as announced by Mayawati herself, is seen as a factor contributing to the MPs’ unease about their future within the party.
Mayawati’s Stand and Party Direction
Mayawati, on her 68th birthday, declared BSP’s intention to stand alone in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, vowing to field candidates on all seats without forming alliances with either the Opposition or the ruling NDA. She emphasized her commitment to the party and dismissed speculations about her retirement from politics. Mayawati also identified Akash Anand as the party’s successor, reaffirming her dedication to strengthening BSP’s presence in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the elections.
The Electoral Trajectory of BSP
BSP’s electoral journey has witnessed significant fluctuations over the years. Following its substantial victory in the 2007 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, securing a majority of 206 out of 403 seats with 30.4% of the votes, the party faced a decline in subsequent elections. By 2017, BSP’s seat tally dropped to 19, accompanied by a diminishing vote share. The 2022 elections marked a notable setback for BSP, with its vote percentage plummeting to 12.9% and the party being reduced to just one seat in Ballia district, represented by Umashankar Singh.
The potential departure of 10 BSP MPs, with some eyeing alliances with rival political entities, underscores the internal challenges facing the party ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections. Mayawati’s decision to pursue an independent electoral strategy has triggered apprehensions among party members, reflecting broader concerns about BSP’s electoral viability. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the ramifications of these developments on BSP’s future trajectory remain subject to observation and analysis.
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