Mayawati’s political chessboard: Power struggles, legacy, and future of BSP
New Delhi : The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) is witnessing a major internal shake-up, with its leader, Kumari Mayawati, making bold decisions to solidify her control. The removal of Aakash Anand and his father, Anand Kumar, from key positions isn’t just a routine reshuffle—it’s a clear statement. By sidelining her own family members, Mayawati is sending a strong message that BSP is bigger than any dynasty and that discipline within the party is non-negotiable.
Mayawati’s leadership has always been marked by strategic decision-making, and this latest move reflects two core principles:
No Space for Dynastic Politics – In a country where political parties often become family legacies, Mayawati is making it clear that BSP will not follow that path. By removing her nephew and brother from influential roles, she is reinforcing the idea that the party belongs to the people, not to a family.
Firm Grip on Leadership – These changes leave no room for speculation—Mayawati remains the unchallenged leader of BSP. Any internal dissent or alternate power centers will not be tolerated.
At the same time, the appointment of Randhir Bediwal as the new National Coordinator suggests that she is keeping her options open. Leadership roles in BSP remain fluid, entirely at her discretion.
Beyond the internal restructuring, a larger battle is brewing—the fight to carry forward Kanshi Ram’s vision for Dalit empowerment. For decades, Mayawati has been the face of the movement, but now, Chandrashekhar Azad is emerging as a powerful alternative. His victory in Nagina has strengthened his claim as a new-generation Dalit leader who connects with younger voters and speaks their language.
Mayawati has responded by keeping Aakash Anand within the fold but without an active political role. This way, she ensures that BSP does not appear as a family-run party while still holding onto the possibility of Aakash’s political future.
Aakash Anand’s removal is not the first time he has been sidelined, and it might not be the last. In the past, he was withdrawn from public engagements only to be reinstated later. This pattern suggests a well-thought-out strategy—perhaps a temporary pause rather than a final rejection.
Mayawati might be preparing him for a more calculated return when the timing is right. Aakash’s appeal among younger voters, particularly through social media, makes him a valuable asset for the party. However, for now, Mayawati seems intent on proving that BSP’s leadership is based on merit and ideology rather than family ties.
BSP is at a crossroads. While Mayawati’s strong leadership brings stability, sidelining younger leaders for too long could cost the party its future relevance. The Dalit voter base is no longer monolithic, and the rise of Chandrashekhar Azad is a challenge that cannot be ignored. If BSP wants to remain a dominant force, it must balance experience with fresh leadership.
Mayawati must also decide how to counter Azad’s growing influence. Will she take him head-on, or will she adopt a strategy that co-opts his popularity while maintaining her control?
Mayawati is making bold moves, playing a high-stakes game of political chess. By sidelining Aakash Anand, she has strengthened her grip on the party, but the long-term impact of this decision remains to be seen. The emergence of Chandrashekhar Azad adds a new dynamic to Dalit politics, making it crucial for BSP to adapt to the changing landscape.
As BSP undergoes this transformation, the coming months will reveal whether Mayawati’s strategy strengthens the party or creates new fractures. One thing is certain—she is not ready to step aside, and every decision she makes is part of a larger plan to secure BSP’s future in the ever-evolving political arena.
