Amidst Sakshi Maharaj's discontent, Akhilesh Yadav invites BJP leaders, without naming them, to join the PDA. Allegations of neglecting the Lodhi community have heated up UP's political landscape.
UP Politics: BJP MP Sakshi Maharaj's displeasure and the questions raised regarding the Lodhi community have sparked a new debate in Uttar Pradesh's politics. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, without explicitly naming him, alluded to Sakshi Maharaj as finding a 'permanent stop' in the PDA (Backward, Dalit, Minority) alliance. This indicates intensified efforts to garner the OBC vote bank before the 2027 UP elections.
Sakshi Maharaj's Discontent Increases Stir
Senior BJP leader and MP from Unnao, Sakshi Maharaj, recently expressed his dissatisfaction regarding the Lodhi community. He clearly stated that the Lodhi community is not receiving adequate representation in power and organizational structures. This statement came during his visit to Etawah for the unveiling of former Chief Minister Kalyan Singh's statue.
He asserted that the Ram Temple's construction wouldn't have been possible without Kalyan Singh's role in the Ram Mandir movement. He added that following Kalyan Singh's demise and Uma Bharti's departure from the party, the Lodhi community has been sidelined.
Akhilesh Yadav's Subtle Statement
Responding to Sakshi Maharaj's statement, Akhilesh Yadav delivered a political message. Without directly mentioning him, he posted on X (formerly Twitter) that those within the BJP who feel neglected by their community know that their final and permanent destination is the PDA.
Akhilesh wrote, "Those who have seen their community used merely as a vote bank and now find themselves marginalized, speak the truth when they speak from the heart."
What is PDA and Why is it in the News?
PDA stands for Backward, Dalit, and Minority. Akhilesh Yadav is presenting this social coalition as a key strategy for the upcoming assembly elections. He claims this group represents the true vote bank that hasn't received equal representation.
The discontent of a senior OBC leader like Sakshi Maharaj could strengthen this strategy, especially as the SP is currently attempting to breach the BJP's social coalition.
The Lodhi Community's Political Strength
The Lodhi community has played a significant role in Uttar Pradesh politics. They are believed to influence approximately 70 assembly and 12 Lok Sabha seats in the state. Their population constitutes about 5.10% of UP's total population. Powerful leaders like Kalyan Singh and Uma Bharti belong to this community.
