Mayawati drops Akash Anand as successor in major BSP leadership shake-up
BSP chief Mayawati has removed her nephew Akash Anand from the post of national coordinator, signaling a major shake-up in the party. Akash was notably absent from BSP's national meeting in Lucknow. In his place, Mayawati appointed her brother Anand Kumar and senior leader Ramji Gautam as the new national coordinators.
FollowBahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo Mayawati, during a key party meeting in Lucknow announced major organizational changes while discussing the party’s future strategy. She stated that no one would be declared her successor while she is alive and removed her nephew, Akash Anand, from his roles as her political heir and BSP’s national coordinator. Instead, Anand Kumar and Ramji Gautam have been appointed as national coordinators to oversee party affairs across the country.
During the meeting, Mayawati emphasized strengthening the BSP at all levels, including grassroots workers, and directed party functionaries to intensify their outreach efforts. She addressed key national issues, including inflation, unemployment, poverty, and law and order, highlighting how these problems have worsened under the current government. She criticized both the Central and Uttar Pradesh governments for making tall promises but failing to deliver meaningful change, adding that their policies have primarily benefited capitalists while neglecting the needs of marginalized communities.
Mayawati expressed concern over worsening economic conditions, rising debt, and inadequate welfare schemes. She accused the ruling governments of using emotional and religious sentiments to divert public attention from real issues. She also condemned the policies that have weakened the reservation system, affecting the rights of Dalits, tribals, and other backward classes.
She reiterated BSP’s commitment to social justice and inclusive development, stating that the party will continue working towards uplifting the deprived sections of society. The meeting concluded with a renewed focus on expanding the party’s influence nationwide and strengthening its organizational framework.
In December 2023, Mayawati had declared Akash Anand as her successor, assigning him the role of national coordinator. Akash Anand, who holds an MBA from London, now resumes this crucial position as the BSP seeks to rebuild and strategize for future elections.
Also read: When Mayawati reappointed nephew Akash Anand as party national coordinator
In May last year, Mayawati removed Akash from the position, citing his need to gain "maturity" before taking on the role of national coordinator. Despite this, she affirmed that Anand Kumar, Akash Anand's father, would maintain his position within the party.
Akash Anand's reinstatement was decided during a review meeting to analyze the party's poor showing in the recent elections. The BSP did not win any seats, marking the worst performance in its history.
In the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the BSP had secured 10 out of 80 parliamentary seats in Uttar Pradesh, contesting in alliance with Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party (SP).
The meeting, chaired by Mayawati, included Akash Anand, BSP leaders, party coordinators, and district unit presidents from Uttar Pradesh.
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