Lucknow, The possibility of a Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) entry into the INDIA alliance, triggered by Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai’s appeal to BSP chief Mayawati, seems to be fading. The Janata Dal (United) (JD (U)), a key player in the opposition, insists that any pact should involve the Congress consulting the Samajwadi Party (SP). JD (U) veteran KC Tyagi emphasized, “No pact is possible by alienating the Samajwadi Party.”
Efforts to persuade Mayawati to reconsider her neutral stance in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls face challenges, with Tyagi stating, “All are welcome but not at the cost of antagonizing existing parties committed to fighting against the BJP.” The Congress’s interest in an alliance with BSP without consulting SP has raised concerns, leading to doubts about the feasibility of a BSP-Congress pact.
Political experts highlight the complexities within the opposition, with the SP maintaining its non-alignment with the BSP in the opposition bloc. Rai’s offer to BSP had potential merits for both parties, given their declining political fortunes in UP. However, the inner contradictions within the opposition alliance may hinder its formation, making the BJP’s task easier.
Despite speculations of a BSP-Congress alliance, skepticism prevails, and the likelihood of BSP’s entry into the broader opposition alliance remains uncertain. The political landscape in Uttar Pradesh continues to evolve, with various parties navigating alliances and power dynamics in the lead-up to the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
