New Delhi: The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) is currently grappling with internal strife. Initially, BSP supremo Mayawati had asked Akash Anand’s father-in-law, Ashok Siddharth, to retire from politics. Deferring to the former Chief Minister’s wishes, Ashok Siddharth announced his retirement from the political arena. However, just hours later, instead of elevating Akash Anand’s stature, Mayawati took drastic action and expelled him from the BSP.
In essence, while one announced his retirement, the other was sidelined by Mayawati herself. All in all, the BSP supremo showed the door to two prominent party figures in a single stroke. This sequence of events is being viewed as a move that achieved two objectives at once.
What signals had Mayawati given earlier?
In an earlier meeting, BSP supremo Mayawati had removed Akash Anand from a position of major responsibility, describing him as immature. She had cited the significant role played by his father-in-law, Ashok Siddharth, in politics as a hindrance. Mayawati had clarified that if Ashok Siddharth were to retire from politics, a major decision regarding Akash Anand’s future could be considered.
Subsequently, Ashok Siddharth announced his retirement from active politics. Yet, mere hours after his decision, Akash Anand was removed from the BSP. Instead of seeing his stature rise following his father-in-law’s retirement, Akash Anand found himself ousted from the party entirely. This decision is believed to be part of a larger strategy by Mayawati.
No relief for Akash despite father-in-law’s retirement
As soon as Ashok Siddharth announced his retirement from politics, speculation began that Akash Anand might regain a prominent position. However, the situation took a completely different turn. Mayawati remarked that Ashok Siddharth’s retirement was a correct step, albeit a delayed one.
She further stated that had Ashok Siddharth taken this decision earlier, the party and the Bahujan movement would not have had to face such difficult circumstances. Additionally, Mayawati took aim at issues concerning dynastic politics and personal self-interest. She stated that the BSP’s politics is rooted in the ideology of Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar and Manyavar Kanshiram.
This path demands sacrifice and struggle, as well as the ability to rise above personal and familial interests. Mayawati further emphasized that for those advancing within the party, it is essential to work towards the broader goal of the Bahujan society, transcending any attachment to positions or family.
Mayawati raises questions about Akash Anand
Former Chief Minister Mayawati has also questioned Akash Anand’s attitude. She remarked that Akash Anand prioritized his attachment to his father-in-law over his political career; notably, he did not even repost content related to Ashok Siddharth on social media platforms.
Previously, Akash Anand had demonstrated his loyalty by reposting Mayawati’s posts. Based on this, the BSP supremo observed that Akash Anand appears to be conflicted regarding the interests of the party and the movement.
