Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Sunday claimed that the economic condition of the people belonging to SC, ST and OBC categories is continuously deteriorating due to India's sluggish economy.

To resolve the existing issue, she urged the Centre and the state governments to provide employment to these sections by filling the vacant quota seats allocated in government-run institutions.

Taking to Twitter, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said, "In our country, the economic condition of SCs, STs, OBCs and upper caste poor is continuously deteriorating due to the economic slowdown. I urge the Central government as well as the state governments to pay special attention to these neglected sections of the society and provide them with all the benefits by introducing new schemes in order to eradicate poverty."

"In addition, I also want Centre and the state government to fill up the vacant quota seats of the government-run institutions by giving these people employment. The administration must carry out special campaigns for the same. These moves will improve their economic conditions slightly. These kinds of steps are also important in the interest of the country," she said in another tweet.

On Saturday also, the BSP Supremo expressed concern over the prevailing economic condition of the country and stated that an "economic recession" is looming over the country.

"In the midst of serious issues like widespread unemployment, poverty, price rise, illiteracy, health, tensions/violence, the threat of an economic recession is looming over the country," she said on micro-blogging site yesterday.

"The trader community is dejected and worried. After job cuts, they are forced to commit suicide. The Centre must take this seriously," she said in another tweet yesterday.&nbsp;

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Sunday claimed that the economic condition of the people belonging to SC, ST and OBC categories is continuously deteriorating due to India's sluggish economy.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Sunday claimed that the economic condition of the people belonging to SC, ST and OBC categories is continuously deteriorating due to India's sluggish economy. To resolve the existing issue, she urged the Centre and the state governments to provide employment to these sections by filling the vacant quota seats allocated in government-run institutions. Taking to Twitter, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said, "In our country, the economic condition of SCs, STs, OBCs and upper caste poor is continuously deteriorating due to the economic slowdown. I urge the Central government as well as the state governments to pay special attention to these neglected sections of the society and provide them with all the benefits by introducing new schemes in order to eradicate poverty." "In addition, I also want Centre and the state government to fill up the vacant quota seats of the government-run institutions by giving these people employment. The administration must carry out special campaigns for the same. These moves will improve their economic conditions slightly. These kinds of steps are also important in the interest of the country," she said in another tweet. On Saturday also, the BSP Supremo expressed concern over the prevailing economic condition of the country and stated that an "economic recession" is looming over the country. "In the midst of serious issues like widespread unemployment, poverty, price rise, illiteracy, health, tensions/violence, the threat of an economic recession is looming over the country," she said on micro-blogging site yesterday. "The trader community is dejected and worried. After job cuts, they are forced to commit suicide. The Centre must take this seriously," she said in another tweet yesterday.

Conditions of SCs, STs deteriorating due to economic slowdown: Mayawati

Wednesday morning saw political leaders and BJP stalwarts arriving at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-to-be-cremated-with-full-state-honours-on-wednesday-afternoon-bjp-241240">former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's</a> residence to pay their tributes and get her glimpse for the last time.&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-was-waiting-to-see-this-day-in-my-lifetime-said-sushma-swaraj-in-final-tweet-241263">tributes to Swaraj</a> at her residence in Delhi.&nbsp;

Clad in white kurta-pyjama, PM Modi bore a sombre look on his face, paid his tribute to the 'Iron Lady'&nbsp;and went on to express his condolences to the Swaraj family.

He held on to Sushma's husband Swaraj Kaushal's hand and listened to him patiently.&nbsp;

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also arrived at her residence to pay last respects. Former deputy PM LK Advani, Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, former PM Manmohan Singh, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati, were also present.

Kerala's former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien, Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi were among those who arrived at her residence. Bharatiya Janata Party leader Hema Malini, Yog guru Ramdev, Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal were also in attendance.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays last respects to former External Affairs Minister and BJP leader <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SushmaSwaraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SushmaSwaraj</a>. <a href="https://t.co/Sv02MtoSiH">pic.twitter.com/Sv02MtoSiH</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1158957519903055873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Swaraj's mortal remains will be taken to the BJP headquarters later in the day from her residence. Her rites will take place after 3 pm, she will be cremated with full state honours.&nbsp;

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Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla pays last respect to former External Affairs Minister &amp; BJP leader <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SushmaSwaraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SushmaSwaraj</a>, at her residence. She passed away last night due to cardiac arrest. <a href="https://t.co/DTRJEBM4mC">pic.twitter.com/DTRJEBM4mC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1158947170017579008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the Delhi government has announced a two-day state mourning on the sudden demise of Sushma Swaraj.&nbsp;

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Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind pays last tribute to former External Affairs Minister &amp; Bharatiya Janata Party leader <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SushmaSwaraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SushmaSwaraj</a>, at her residence. <a href="https://t.co/7IAj9WINol">pic.twitter.com/7IAj9WINol</a>
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"There will be no cultural events during this period in the state," a statement from issued by Delhi government read.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Sushma Swaraj was one of the most prominent faces of the BJP who immensely contributed to the party's growth and never shied away from taking challenges.</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Sushma Swaraj: BJP's most prominent woman face passes away at 67</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bjps-most-prominent-women-face-passes-away-at-age-of-67-241268/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Her rise in politics coincided in some ways with the growth of BJP as a party. She left a mark in roles as a union minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, as leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha from 2009 to 2014, and as External Affairs Minister in the first term of Narendra Modi government.

A four-time member of Lok Sabha and three-time of Rajya Sabha, she did not contest in 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing her bad health.

The 67-year-old accepted tough challenges which helped the BJP break new grounds.&nbsp;

Swaraj was rushed to AIIMS, Delhi after suffering a cardiac arrest on Tuesday evening. She breathed her last after doctors failed to revive her after trying for over an hour.&nbsp;

Wednesday morning saw political leaders and BJP stalwarts arriving at former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's residence to pay their tributes and get her glimpse for the last time.

Wednesday morning saw political leaders and BJP stalwarts arriving at former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's residence to pay their tributes and get her glimpse for the last time. President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid their tributes to Swaraj at her residence in Delhi. Clad in white kurta-pyjama, PM Modi bore a sombre look on his face, paid his tribute to the 'Iron Lady' and went on to express his condolences to the Swaraj family. He held on to Sushma's husband Swaraj Kaushal's hand and listened to him patiently. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also arrived at her residence to pay last respects. Former deputy PM LK Advani, Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, former PM Manmohan Singh, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati, were also present. Kerala's former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien, Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi were among those who arrived at her residence. Bharatiya Janata Party leader Hema Malini, Yog guru Ramdev, Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal were also in attendance. #WATCH Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays last respects to former External Affairs Minister and BJP leader #SushmaSwaraj. pic.twitter.com/Sv02MtoSiH — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2019 × Swaraj's mortal remains will be taken to the BJP headquarters later in the day from her residence. Her rites will take place after 3 pm, she will be cremated with full state honours. Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla pays last respect to former External Affairs Minister & BJP leader #SushmaSwaraj, at her residence. She passed away last night due to cardiac arrest. pic.twitter.com/DTRJEBM4mC — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Delhi government has announced a two-day state mourning on the sudden demise of Sushma Swaraj. Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind pays last tribute to former External Affairs Minister & Bharatiya Janata Party leader #SushmaSwaraj, at her residence. pic.twitter.com/7IAj9WINol — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2019 × "There will be no cultural events during this period in the state," a statement from issued by Delhi government read. Sushma Swaraj was one of the most prominent faces of the BJP who immensely contributed to the party's growth and never shied away from taking challenges. Sushma Swaraj: BJP's most prominent woman face passes away at 67 Her rise in politics coincided in some ways with the growth of BJP as a party. She left a mark in roles as a union minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, as leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha from 2009 to 2014, and as External Affairs Minister in the first term of Narendra Modi government. A four-time member of Lok Sabha and three-time of Rajya Sabha, she did not contest in 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing her bad health. The 67-year-old accepted tough challenges which helped the BJP break new grounds. Swaraj was rushed to AIIMS, Delhi after suffering a cardiac arrest on Tuesday evening. She breathed her last after doctors failed to revive her after trying for over an hour.

PM Modi, President Kovind, Amit Shah pay tribute to Sushma Swaraj at her residence

Condemning the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mps-demand-exemplary-action-against-azam-khan-over-his-sexist-remarks-directed-at-bjp-mp-rama-devi-speaker-to-take-a-decision-238586">sexist remarks made by Samajwadi Party's Azam Khan</a> against BJP lawmaker Rama Devi, BSP chief Mayawati on Friday asked him to seek forgiveness from all women as the statement is against their dignity and respect.&nbsp;

"The kind of inappropriate language used by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/azam-khans-remarks-on-jaya-prada-shows-sps-thinking-and-culture-adityanath-210611">SP MP from UP Azam Khan </a>for the presiding lady in the Lok Sabha yesterday is offensive to women's dignity and respect and it is condemnable. For this, he should apologise not only to the Parliament but to all women," her Hindi tweet translates to.&nbsp;

Khan had sparked a controversy by making objectionable remarks against Rama Devi when she was presiding over the House during the debate on the Triple Talaq Bill yesterday.

Cutting across party lines, Lok Sabha members today condemned Khan`s remark and sought action against him.

Speaker Om Birla has assured the House that he will take decision on it shortly.

The Samajwadi Party leader's remarks were perceived to be sexist by the treasury benches and triggering strong objection, to which he said that Rama Devi was very respected and was like a sister to her.

The Rampur lawmaker did not apologise and said he will resign if he had said anything unparliamentary. He also staged a walkout along with his party chief Akhilesh Yadav, who defended his remarks. &nbsp;

Condemning the sexist remarks made by Samajwadi Party's Azam Khan against BJP lawmaker Rama Devi, BSP chief Mayawati on Friday asked him to seek forgiveness from all women as the statement is against their dignity and respect.

Condemning the sexist remarks made by Samajwadi Party's Azam Khan against BJP lawmaker Rama Devi, BSP chief Mayawati on Friday asked him to seek forgiveness from all women as the statement is against their dignity and respect. "The kind of inappropriate language used by SP MP from UP Azam Khan for the presiding lady in the Lok Sabha yesterday is offensive to women's dignity and respect and it is condemnable. For this, he should apologise not only to the Parliament but to all women," her Hindi tweet translates to. Khan had sparked a controversy by making objectionable remarks against Rama Devi when she was presiding over the House during the debate on the Triple Talaq Bill yesterday. Cutting across party lines, Lok Sabha members today condemned Khan`s remark and sought action against him. Speaker Om Birla has assured the House that he will take decision on it shortly. The Samajwadi Party leader's remarks were perceived to be sexist by the treasury benches and triggering strong objection, to which he said that Rama Devi was very respected and was like a sister to her. The Rampur lawmaker did not apologise and said he will resign if he had said anything unparliamentary. He also staged a walkout along with his party chief Akhilesh Yadav, who defended his remarks.

Mayawati condemns Azam Khan's sexist remark, asks him to apologise to all women

The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Tuesday expelled its lone MLA from Karnataka N Mahesh for abstaining from voting on the trust motion, despite being directed by the party high command to vote in favour of the Congress-JD(S) coalition.

"Despite directions from party high command to vote in favour of HD Kumaraswamy, BSP MLA N Mahesh did not attend the trust vote and violated directions, which is an act of indiscipline. Party has taken this seriously and expelled him with immediate effect," BSP supremo Mayawati tweeted.

Mahesh was not present in the Assembly during the trust vote, which was moved by Kumaraswamy.

The 14-month-old Congress JD(S) coalition government in Karnataka fell on Tuesday after it was defeated on the floor of the Karnataka Assembly with about 20 MLAs of the ruling coalition defying their party whips and absenting from voting on the confidence motion.

The coalition got 99 votes as against 105 of the opposition.

Ahead of the trust vote, Mayawati had on Sunday directed Mahesh to vote in support of the coalition.

In the 224-member House, only 204 were present and voted in the division pressed by Leader of the Opposition BS Yeddyurappa after the voice vote.

He and other BJP members showed victory signs in the House while the ruling coalition members quietly walked out.

The defeat marks the end of an uneasy coalition that was formed after the assembly polls in May 2018, which returned a hung verdict after three main parties in the state- Congress, BJP and the JD(S) fought each other in the polls.

There were differences between the coalition partners that often came to the surface but they carried on against the threat of BJP.

The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Tuesday expelled its lone MLA from Karnataka N Mahesh for abstaining from voting on the trust motion, despite being directed by the party high command to vote in favour of the Congress-JD(S) coalition.

The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) on Tuesday expelled its lone MLA from Karnataka N Mahesh for abstaining from voting on the trust motion, despite being directed by the party high command to vote in favour of the Congress-JD(S) coalition. "Despite directions from party high command to vote in favour of HD Kumaraswamy, BSP MLA N Mahesh did not attend the trust vote and violated directions, which is an act of indiscipline. Party has taken this seriously and expelled him with immediate effect," BSP supremo Mayawati tweeted. Mahesh was not present in the Assembly during the trust vote, which was moved by Kumaraswamy. The 14-month-old Congress JD(S) coalition government in Karnataka fell on Tuesday after it was defeated on the floor of the Karnataka Assembly with about 20 MLAs of the ruling coalition defying their party whips and absenting from voting on the confidence motion. The coalition got 99 votes as against 105 of the opposition. Ahead of the trust vote, Mayawati had on Sunday directed Mahesh to vote in support of the coalition. In the 224-member House, only 204 were present and voted in the division pressed by Leader of the Opposition BS Yeddyurappa after the voice vote. He and other BJP members showed victory signs in the House while the ruling coalition members quietly walked out. The defeat marks the end of an uneasy coalition that was formed after the assembly polls in May 2018, which returned a hung verdict after three main parties in the state- Congress, BJP and the JD(S) fought each other in the polls. There were differences between the coalition partners that often came to the surface but they carried on against the threat of BJP.

Bahujan Samaj Party expels lone Karnataka MLA for abstaining from trust vote

The lone BSP MLA N Mahesh in Karnataka, who was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bahujan-samaj-party-expels-lone-karnataka-mla-for-abstaining-from-trust-vote-238053">expelled from the party </a>for not voting in support of the on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cm-kumaraswamys-congress-jds-government-loses-floor-test-in-karnataka-assembly-237989">trust motion in the Assembly</a>, claimed on Wednesday that his party high command had asked him to abstain from voting and remain neutral.

He also said he will not support the BJP government and would remain neutral.

"I came to know about it today and that is why I have come here to clarify that. Our party in charge M P Ashok Siddharth told me to abstain from voting, keep neutral and don`t support any party. That was the instruction given to me and accordingly, I got myself absent," he told ANI reacting to his expulsion from the party on Wednesday.

To a question on BSP supremo Mayawati expelling him from the party for not supporting the coalition government, Mahesh said, "I don`t know that and today only I came to know about it."

"I have not violated any discipline or Behenji`s (Mayawati`s) order," he said.

"I have not violated anything. According to directions of the high command I got myself absent, keeping neutral." he added.&nbsp;

When asked whether he was surprised by the expulsion, Mahesh said, "It is surprising for me as I have not violated anything."

To a question, did you speak to Mayawati? he said, "No Today I came back. I was away from Bengaluru for nearly one week. I was in my constituency. So today morning I came to know that I am expelled."

"It may be a miscommunication. I have got all justice from my party. I will stay in BSP today and tomorrow," he added.

"I will not support the BJP. Let them form the government, I will keep neutral," he said when asked whether he will support the BJP to form the government in the state.&nbsp;

Yesterday, BSP had expelled Mahesh for abstaining from voting on the trust motion, despite being directed by the party high command to vote in favour of the Congress-JD(S) coalition.

"Despite directions from party high command to vote in favour of HD Kumaraswamy, BSP MLA N Mahesh did not attend the trust vote and violated directions, which is an act of indiscipline. Party has taken this seriously and expelled him with immediate effect," BSP supremo Mayawati tweeted.

Mahesh was not present in the Assembly during the trust vote, which was moved by Kumaraswamy.

The 14-month-old Congress JD(S) coalition government in Karnataka fell on Tuesday after it was defeated on the floor of the Karnataka Assembly with about 20 MLAs of the ruling coalition defying their party whips and absenting from voting on the confidence motion.

The coalition got 99 votes as against 105 of the opposition.

Ahead of the trust vote, Mayawati had on Sunday directed Mahesh to vote in support of the coalition.

The lone BSP MLA N Mahesh in Karnataka, who was expelled from the party for not voting in support of the on the trust motion in the Assembly, claimed on Wednesday that his party high command had asked him to abstain from voting and remain neutral.

The lone BSP MLA N Mahesh in Karnataka, who was expelled from the party for not voting in support of the on the trust motion in the Assembly, claimed on Wednesday that his party high command had asked him to abstain from voting and remain neutral. He also said he will not support the BJP government and would remain neutral. "I came to know about it today and that is why I have come here to clarify that. Our party in charge M P Ashok Siddharth told me to abstain from voting, keep neutral and don`t support any party. That was the instruction given to me and accordingly, I got myself absent," he told ANI reacting to his expulsion from the party on Wednesday. To a question on BSP supremo Mayawati expelling him from the party for not supporting the coalition government, Mahesh said, "I don`t know that and today only I came to know about it." "I have not violated any discipline or Behenji`s (Mayawati`s) order," he said. "I have not violated anything. According to directions of the high command I got myself absent, keeping neutral." he added. When asked whether he was surprised by the expulsion, Mahesh said, "It is surprising for me as I have not violated anything." To a question, did you speak to Mayawati? he said, "No Today I came back. I was away from Bengaluru for nearly one week. I was in my constituency. So today morning I came to know that I am expelled." "It may be a miscommunication. I have got all justice from my party. I will stay in BSP today and tomorrow," he added. "I will not support the BJP. Let them form the government, I will keep neutral," he said when asked whether he will support the BJP to form the government in the state. Yesterday, BSP had expelled Mahesh for abstaining from voting on the trust motion, despite being directed by the party high command to vote in favour of the Congress-JD(S) coalition. "Despite directions from party high command to vote in favour of HD Kumaraswamy, BSP MLA N Mahesh did not attend the trust vote and violated directions, which is an act of indiscipline. Party has taken this seriously and expelled him with immediate effect," BSP supremo Mayawati tweeted. Mahesh was not present in the Assembly during the trust vote, which was moved by Kumaraswamy. The 14-month-old Congress JD(S) coalition government in Karnataka fell on Tuesday after it was defeated on the floor of the Karnataka Assembly with about 20 MLAs of the ruling coalition defying their party whips and absenting from voting on the confidence motion. The coalition got 99 votes as against 105 of the opposition. Ahead of the trust vote, Mayawati had on Sunday directed Mahesh to vote in support of the coalition.

I was told by party high command to abstain from voting: Karnataka BSP MLA

The income tax department on Wednesday attached Rs 400 crore worth of ‘benami’ property of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati’s brother, Anand and his wife.&nbsp;

The order was issued under the Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988. BSP has termed the act a conspiracy by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to throttle the voices of the poor, downtrodden, Dalits and minorities.&nbsp;

Anand was recently appointed the national vice president of the BSP. At the same meeting, she appointed her nephew Aakash Anand as national coordinator. Through this step, she initiated the process of passing on the baton of the party to her family members. A bitter critic of dynastic politics, Mayawati’s action left even her core supporters baffled. Many social activists allege that her actions have weakened the social justice movement of her late mentor Kanshi Ram.&nbsp;

Loyalists, however, claim that most regional parties today are family-held like RJD, DMK, TRS, TDP, YSRCP, SP etc. Family is the glue, which holds these parties together and prevents them from disintegration.&nbsp;

Most patriarchs try to close the leadership loop during their life so that their children/relatives do not face opposition from ambitious leaders post their retirement/ death.&nbsp;

At the same meeting last month, Mayawati formalised the breakup of BSP with SP, announcing it will contest all future elections on its own. She accused Akhilesh Yadav of not calling her after the results, working “against non-Yadav backward communities” and even neglecting the Muslims while he was the Uttar Pradesh chief minister. More importantly, perhaps, she alleged that Yadav votes were not transferred to BSP while her party transferred its votes to the SP.&nbsp;

Mayawati’s assertion is incorrect. It’s the BSP, which has benefitted more from this alliance. Her party won 10 seats in 2019, twice the tally of SP, after it failed to even open its account in 2014. SP could just maintain its tally of 5 seats.&nbsp;

The alliance was banking on DMY (Dalit-Muslim-Yadav) combination, which accounts for 50 per cent of the population to see them through. The India Today-Axis exit poll showed that SP was able to consolidate the Yadav votes towards Mahagathbandhan (MGB) candidates. About 72 per cent Yadavs in 2019 supported the Mahagthbandhan, up from 56 per cent in 2014. In-fact BJP’s support among the Yadavs is expected to have declined by 9 per cent, from 27 per cent in 2014 to 18 per cent in 2019.&nbsp;

SP also ensured that the Muslim votes were transferred to BSP candidates without any leakages; support received by the Mahagthbandhan from the community in 2019 was 76 , per centthe same as 2014: this despite Congress not being part of this grand alliance.&nbsp;

While Mayawati was able to maintain her hold on Jatav votes, the non-Jatavs continued to ditch her and the BSP. Among the non-Jatav’s, the Mahagathbandhan support declined from 39 per cent in 2014 to 30 per cent in 2019. The BJP further strengthened its influence among the non-Jatav SCs increasing its support base from 45 per cent in 2014 to 57 per cent in 2019.&nbsp;

So, actually, Mayawati lost support among her own Dalit community and couldn’t transfer votes to Akhilesh, while SP consolidated its support among Yadavs (contrary to popular belief) and managed to seamlessly transfer its votes. This is the reason why the BSP won more seats than SP.

Mayawati has a habit of twisting facts and figures to console her vote bank. In the 2012 Assembly elections, BSP received a drubbing and SP rejuvenated by young Akhilesh Yadav’s campaign won the polls. At that time, Mayawati blamed the Muslims and upper caste for her loss, while actually, BSP’s support from minorities and Brahmins increased by 3 per cent each.&nbsp;

She lost because of the dissatisfaction amongst Dalits on account of the Brahminisation of their party. Scheduled Caste support for BSP declined from 86 per cent in 2007 to 62 per cent in 2012, shaving off 5 per cent from its vote share.&nbsp;

SP and BSP expected to win 60-65 seats between them and play a key role in government formation at the centre. Akhilesh had openly announced support for Mayawati as PM. With BJP coming back to power with an even bigger mandate, Mayawati’s dreams were quashed.&nbsp;

With no role for her in central politics, Mayawati doesn’t want to leave the CM chair for Akhilesh. This would literally kill her party. Elections in the state are due in 2022. This is the real bone of contention.

In a triangular contest, Mayawati needs minimum 30 per cent vote share to win elections. For the past few elections, BSP has been hovering around the 20 per cent vote share. With just SCs (21 per cent of the population) as anchor vote segment within which too the BJP has made inroads, BSP cannot win.&nbsp;

SP is better placed with MY as anchor vote bank accounting for 28 per cent of the population. Without the Muslim vote, it will be difficult for BSP to be in contention. The Muslim vote increases her support base to roughly 30 per cent of the population, including Jatavs. This is why she attacked Akhilesh for neglecting Muslims and suggesting to her not to field candidates from the community else it could stoke polarisation.&nbsp;

The non-Yadav OBC vote is now solidly behind BJP; 72 per cent supported the party in 2019, an increase of 12 per cent compared to 2014. Her statement that Akhilesh and his SP government worked against non-Yadav backward communities’ interests is not likely to cut much ice. SP and BSP combined could garner only 14 per cent of non-Yadav OBC vote in the 2019 elections.&nbsp;

 
Mayawati would have become history if not for the support from Akhilesh. Deep inside her heart, she knows that too. But she wants to capitalise on the Lok Sabha performance and revive her party in the state elections. If the party doesn’t win or do extremely well in 2022 it could face potential electoral oblivion. She is facing the biggest challenge of her life. Only time will tell whether she succeeds or fails.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-mayawati-s-existential-crisis-2773412">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The income tax department on Wednesday attached Rs 400 crore worth of ‘benami’ property of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati’s brother, Anand and his wife.

The income tax department on Wednesday attached Rs 400 crore worth of ‘benami’ property of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati’s brother, Anand and his wife. The order was issued under the Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988. BSP has termed the act a conspiracy by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to throttle the voices of the poor, downtrodden, Dalits and minorities. Anand was recently appointed the national vice president of the BSP. At the same meeting, she appointed her nephew Aakash Anand as national coordinator. Through this step, she initiated the process of passing on the baton of the party to her family members. A bitter critic of dynastic politics, Mayawati’s action left even her core supporters baffled. Many social activists allege that her actions have weakened the social justice movement of her late mentor Kanshi Ram. Loyalists, however, claim that most regional parties today are family-held like RJD, DMK, TRS, TDP, YSRCP, SP etc. Family is the glue, which holds these parties together and prevents them from disintegration. Most patriarchs try to close the leadership loop during their life so that their children/relatives do not face opposition from ambitious leaders post their retirement/ death. At the same meeting last month, Mayawati formalised the breakup of BSP with SP, announcing it will contest all future elections on its own. She accused Akhilesh Yadav of not calling her after the results, working “against non-Yadav backward communities” and even neglecting the Muslims while he was the Uttar Pradesh chief minister. More importantly, perhaps, she alleged that Yadav votes were not transferred to BSP while her party transferred its votes to the SP. Mayawati’s assertion is incorrect. It’s the BSP, which has benefitted more from this alliance. Her party won 10 seats in 2019, twice the tally of SP, after it failed to even open its account in 2014. SP could just maintain its tally of 5 seats. The alliance was banking on DMY (Dalit-Muslim-Yadav) combination, which accounts for 50 per cent of the population to see them through. The India Today-Axis exit poll showed that SP was able to consolidate the Yadav votes towards Mahagathbandhan (MGB) candidates. About 72 per cent Yadavs in 2019 supported the Mahagthbandhan, up from 56 per cent in 2014. In-fact BJP’s support among the Yadavs is expected to have declined by 9 per cent, from 27 per cent in 2014 to 18 per cent in 2019. SP also ensured that the Muslim votes were transferred to BSP candidates without any leakages; support received by the Mahagthbandhan from the community in 2019 was 76 , per centthe same as 2014: this despite Congress not being part of this grand alliance. While Mayawati was able to maintain her hold on Jatav votes, the non-Jatavs continued to ditch her and the BSP. Among the non-Jatav’s, the Mahagathbandhan support declined from 39 per cent in 2014 to 30 per cent in 2019. The BJP further strengthened its influence among the non-Jatav SCs increasing its support base from 45 per cent in 2014 to 57 per cent in 2019. So, actually, Mayawati lost support among her own Dalit community and couldn’t transfer votes to Akhilesh, while SP consolidated its support among Yadavs (contrary to popular belief) and managed to seamlessly transfer its votes. This is the reason why the BSP won more seats than SP. Mayawati has a habit of twisting facts and figures to console her vote bank. In the 2012 Assembly elections, BSP received a drubbing and SP rejuvenated by young Akhilesh Yadav’s campaign won the polls. At that time, Mayawati blamed the Muslims and upper caste for her loss, while actually, BSP’s support from minorities and Brahmins increased by 3 per cent each. She lost because of the dissatisfaction amongst Dalits on account of the Brahminisation of their party. Scheduled Caste support for BSP declined from 86 per cent in 2007 to 62 per cent in 2012, shaving off 5 per cent from its vote share. SP and BSP expected to win 60-65 seats between them and play a key role in government formation at the centre. Akhilesh had openly announced support for Mayawati as PM. With BJP coming back to power with an even bigger mandate, Mayawati’s dreams were quashed. With no role for her in central politics, Mayawati doesn’t want to leave the CM chair for Akhilesh. This would literally kill her party. Elections in the state are due in 2022. This is the real bone of contention. In a triangular contest, Mayawati needs minimum 30 per cent vote share to win elections. For the past few elections, BSP has been hovering around the 20 per cent vote share. With just SCs (21 per cent of the population) as anchor vote segment within which too the BJP has made inroads, BSP cannot win. SP is better placed with MY as anchor vote bank accounting for 28 per cent of the population. Without the Muslim vote, it will be difficult for BSP to be in contention. The Muslim vote increases her support base to roughly 30 per cent of the population, including Jatavs. This is why she attacked Akhilesh for neglecting Muslims and suggesting to her not to field candidates from the community else it could stoke polarisation. The non-Yadav OBC vote is now solidly behind BJP; 72 per cent supported the party in 2019, an increase of 12 per cent compared to 2014. Her statement that Akhilesh and his SP government worked against non-Yadav backward communities’ interests is not likely to cut much ice. SP and BSP combined could garner only 14 per cent of non-Yadav OBC vote in the 2019 elections. Mayawati would have become history if not for the support from Akhilesh. Deep inside her heart, she knows that too. But she wants to capitalise on the Lok Sabha performance and revive her party in the state elections. If the party doesn’t win or do extremely well in 2022 it could face potential electoral oblivion. She is facing the biggest challenge of her life. Only time will tell whether she succeeds or fails. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Mayawati’s existential crisis

BSP chief Mayawati on Monday slammed the Uttar Pradesh government for its decision to put 17 castes into Scheduled Caste category and called the move "unconstitutional" and politically motivated.

"It is reported in a section of media that 17 cases have been removed from OBC category and put in SC category. Yogi Adityanath government has deceived them. They will not get the benefit from any of the categories," Mayawati told ANI.

"No government can either put or remove any caste from SC category. Article 341 of the constitution bars a government from doing so," she added.

The BSP supremo said that only the President and Parliament have powers to make any changes in the list.

Mayawati said, "Part one of Article 341 clearly states that the President can specify any group to SC category through a public notification on Governor`s advice. Part 2 of the Article says that if notification is released under part one of the Article, it can only be changed by Parliament. Part 2 states that Parliament can specify, include or exclude any group from SC category."

The rules state that the notification cannot be undone by any other notification, she said.

Stating that the move is against the law and the Constitution, she said, "These castes will no longer get the quota under OBC category. They will be treated as general caste. It is clear that Yogi government has issued this order to deceive these castes."

Mayawati alleged that the order has been issued keeping in view the upcoming by-polls in the state and appealed to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to immediately withdraw it.

She also urged the Centre to initiate the constitutional procedure to include these groups in the SC category and demanded an increase in the quota limit for them.

"I appeal the government to take the order back and the Centre to include these castes in the category and increase SC quota proportionately as per constitutional procedure," she concluded.

In a decision taken on Friday, UP government added 17 castes including Kashyap, Mallah, Kumhar, Rajbhar, Prajapati and others in the list of Scheduled Castes. It also directed all district officers to issue caste certificate to the families of those belonging to these castes. 
&nbsp;

BSP chief Mayawati on Monday slammed the Uttar Pradesh government for its decision to put 17 castes into Scheduled Caste category and called the move "unconstitutional" and politically motivated.

BSP chief Mayawati on Monday slammed the Uttar Pradesh government for its decision to put 17 castes into Scheduled Caste category and called the move "unconstitutional" and politically motivated. "It is reported in a section of media that 17 cases have been removed from OBC category and put in SC category. Yogi Adityanath government has deceived them. They will not get the benefit from any of the categories," Mayawati told ANI. "No government can either put or remove any caste from SC category. Article 341 of the constitution bars a government from doing so," she added. The BSP supremo said that only the President and Parliament have powers to make any changes in the list. Mayawati said, "Part one of Article 341 clearly states that the President can specify any group to SC category through a public notification on Governor`s advice. Part 2 of the Article says that if notification is released under part one of the Article, it can only be changed by Parliament. Part 2 states that Parliament can specify, include or exclude any group from SC category." The rules state that the notification cannot be undone by any other notification, she said. Stating that the move is against the law and the Constitution, she said, "These castes will no longer get the quota under OBC category. They will be treated as general caste. It is clear that Yogi government has issued this order to deceive these castes." Mayawati alleged that the order has been issued keeping in view the upcoming by-polls in the state and appealed to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to immediately withdraw it. She also urged the Centre to initiate the constitutional procedure to include these groups in the SC category and demanded an increase in the quota limit for them. "I appeal the government to take the order back and the Centre to include these castes in the category and increase SC quota proportionately as per constitutional procedure," she concluded. In a decision taken on Friday, UP government added 17 castes including Kashyap, Mallah, Kumhar, Rajbhar, Prajapati and others in the list of Scheduled Castes. It also directed all district officers to issue caste certificate to the families of those belonging to these castes.

UP government's move to include 17 castes in Scheduled Caste category 'unconstitutional': Mayawati

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Monday announced that her party will fight all future elections on its own. 
 
The announcement comes a day after the BSP supremo held a meeting with party workers to review her outfit's showing in the recent Lok Sabha polls.

In a series of tweets, the BSP chief said that Samajwadi Party's (SP) conduct after the Lok Sabha elections has compelled her to review whether it was possible to defeat the BJP in future by continuing the alliance. 
 
"Everyone is aware that forgetting everything of the past as also the anti-BSP and anti-Dalit decisions like reservation in promotions and bad law and order during the SP rule in 2012-2017, BSP adhered to the 'Gatbandhan dharma' with the Samajwadi Party in the interest of the country," she tweeted in Hindi.

&nbsp;"Samajwadi Party's (SP) conduct after the Lok Sabha elections has compelled us&nbsp;to review whether it was possible to defeat the BJP in future by continuing the alliance. Therefore, in the interest of the party and the movement, BSP will fight all future elections - big or small - on its own," she said in another tweet.

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परन्तु लोकसभा आमचुनाव के बाद सपा का व्यवहार बीएसपी को यह सोचने पर मजबूर करता है कि क्या ऐसा करके बीजेपी को आगे हरा पाना संभव होगा? जो संभव नहीं है। अतः पार्टी व मूवमेन्ट के हित में अब बीएसपी आगे होने वाले सभी छोटे-बड़े चुनाव अकेले अपने बूते पर ही लड़ेगी।
— Mayawati (@Mayawati) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mayawati/status/1143031592853446657?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On Sunday, Mayawati had claimed that she had called Akhilesh Yadav&nbsp;on the counting day but he did not answer her calls. The BSP chief&nbsp;also alleged that Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav got her framed in Taj corridor case.

The two parties had joined hands to take on the Saffron Party in the Lok Sabha elections. 
 
The BJP won 62 of 80 seats in the state while the 'Gathbandhan' bagged just 15 with the BSP winning 10 and the SP five. The Congress got one seat and the Apna Dal (S) two. In 2014, the BSP could not even manage one seat. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Monday announced that her party will fight all future elections on its own. The announcement comes a day after the BSP supremo held a meeting with party workers to review her outfit's showing in the recent Lok Sabha polls.

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Monday announced that her party will fight all future elections on its own. The announcement comes a day after the BSP supremo held a meeting with party workers to review her outfit's showing in the recent Lok Sabha polls. In a series of tweets, the BSP chief said that Samajwadi Party's (SP) conduct after the Lok Sabha elections has compelled her to review whether it was possible to defeat the BJP in future by continuing the alliance. "Everyone is aware that forgetting everything of the past as also the anti-BSP and anti-Dalit decisions like reservation in promotions and bad law and order during the SP rule in 2012-2017, BSP adhered to the 'Gatbandhan dharma' with the Samajwadi Party in the interest of the country," she tweeted in Hindi. "Samajwadi Party's (SP) conduct after the Lok Sabha elections has compelled us to review whether it was possible to defeat the BJP in future by continuing the alliance. Therefore, in the interest of the party and the movement, BSP will fight all future elections - big or small - on its own," she said in another tweet. परन्तु लोकसभा आमचुनाव के बाद सपा का व्यवहार बीएसपी को यह सोचने पर मजबूर करता है कि क्या ऐसा करके बीजेपी को आगे हरा पाना संभव होगा? जो संभव नहीं है। अतः पार्टी व मूवमेन्ट के हित में अब बीएसपी आगे होने वाले सभी छोटे-बड़े चुनाव अकेले अपने बूते पर ही लड़ेगी। — Mayawati (@Mayawati) June 24, 2019 × On Sunday, Mayawati had claimed that she had called Akhilesh Yadav on the counting day but he did not answer her calls. The BSP chief also alleged that Samajwadi Party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav got her framed in Taj corridor case. The two parties had joined hands to take on the Saffron Party in the Lok Sabha elections. The BJP won 62 of 80 seats in the state while the 'Gathbandhan' bagged just 15 with the BSP winning 10 and the SP five. The Congress got one seat and the Apna Dal (S) two. In 2014, the BSP could not even manage one seat. (With inputs from agencies)

Mayawati questions Samajwadi Party's attitude, says Bahujan Samaj Party will fight all elections alone

Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) President Mayawati reintroduced nepotism into the party on Sunday by again appointing her brother Anand Kumar as party vice president and her nephew Akash Anand as national coordinator.

India Watch: Brother, nephew get plum posts in BSP

Watch India Watch, 20th June 2019. To know more watch the video

India Watch, 24th June 2019

Hours after Mayawati announced her plans of going solo in all future elections thus ending the SP-BSP alliance, the BJP took a swipe at Akhilesh Yadav, saying he has been “punished” by the BSP supremo as he “betrayed” his father and uncle for power.

Uttar Pradesh BJP spokesperson Harish Srivastava said the SP-BSP alliance was an opportunistic coming together of the two parties just for the Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

BSP chief Mayawati sought votes from the Dalits and marginalised them. She cannot think about anyone beyond her family. Her history is full of betrayals. On the other hand, Akhilesh Yadav had termed corruption and nepotism as socialism.

He should have thought 100 times before joining hands with Mayawati for opportunistic and selfish politics,” Srivastava said in a statement. He said the BJP “saved” Mayawati’s life and honour, established her in politics and made her chief minister. But she has been “disloyal to the BJP…how can she be loyal to the SP?” The English proverb ‘as you sow so shall you reap’ appropriately captures the goings-on in the state politics, he claimed.

“For power, Akhilesh Yadav betrayed his father Mulayam Singh Yadav and uncle Shivpal Singh Yadav. Now he has been punished by Mayawati’s betrayal,” he said. Earlier in the day, Mayawati declared her party in the future will contest all elections “small and big” on its own, ending the Bahujan Samaj Party-Samajwadi Party alliance forged for the Lok Sabha polls. The BSP chief, known to have made and broken many an alliance in her political journey, said her party had adhered to the ‘gathbandhan’ dharma in the interest of the country but was now forced to do a rethink.

Hours after Mayawati announced her plans of going solo in all future elections thus ending the SP-BSP alliance, the BJP took a swipe at Akhilesh Yadav, saying he has been “punished” by the BSP supremo as he “betrayed” his father and uncle for power.

Hours after Mayawati announced her plans of going solo in all future elections thus ending the SP-BSP alliance, the BJP took a swipe at Akhilesh Yadav, saying he has been “punished” by the BSP supremo as he “betrayed” his father and uncle for power. Uttar Pradesh BJP spokesperson Harish Srivastava said the SP-BSP alliance was an opportunistic coming together of the two parties just for the Lok Sabha polls. BSP chief Mayawati sought votes from the Dalits and marginalised them. She cannot think about anyone beyond her family. Her history is full of betrayals. On the other hand, Akhilesh Yadav had termed corruption and nepotism as socialism. He should have thought 100 times before joining hands with Mayawati for opportunistic and selfish politics,” Srivastava said in a statement. He said the BJP “saved” Mayawati’s life and honour, established her in politics and made her chief minister. But she has been “disloyal to the BJP…how can she be loyal to the SP?” The English proverb ‘as you sow so shall you reap’ appropriately captures the goings-on in the state politics, he claimed. “For power, Akhilesh Yadav betrayed his father Mulayam Singh Yadav and uncle Shivpal Singh Yadav. Now he has been punished by Mayawati’s betrayal,” he said. Earlier in the day, Mayawati declared her party in the future will contest all elections “small and big” on its own, ending the Bahujan Samaj Party-Samajwadi Party alliance forged for the Lok Sabha polls. The BSP chief, known to have made and broken many an alliance in her political journey, said her party had adhered to the ‘gathbandhan’ dharma in the interest of the country but was now forced to do a rethink.

Akhilesh betrayed his father and uncle, now he has been punished by Mayawati: BJP

Samajwadi Party leader Ramashankar Vidyarthi Monday said BSP supremo Mayawati's decision of going solo in all future elections will "weaken" the fight for social justice.

Mayawati on Monday declared that her party in the future will contest all elections "small and big" on its own, signalling the end of the much-discussed Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Samajwadi Party (SP) alliance forged for the Lok Sabha polls.

"She is speaking against the Samajwadi Party in haste and due to the Dalit support to the SP and its leader Akhilesh Yadav. She is weakening the fight for social justice," Vidyarthi told reporters

The SP national general secretary said the 'Dalit samaj' is getting connected with the Samajwadi Party and its chief Akhilesh Yadav in a big way. "People know the reality about what the 'malkin' of the alliance has done," he said.

Mayawati's announcement came a day after she held a meeting with party workers to review the BSP's performance in the recent Lok Sabha polls.

"Everyone is aware that forgetting everything of the past as also the anti-BSP and anti-Dalit decisions like reservation in promotions and bad law and order during the SP rule in 2012-2017, BSP adhered to the 'gathbandhan dharma' with the Samajwadi Party in the interest of the country," she tweeted in Hindi.

"But the SP's attitude after the elections has forced the BSP to think, will it be possible to defeat the BJP in the future? This is not possible," she said.

"Therefore, in the interest of the party and the movement, the party will contest all small and big elections on its own strength," Mayawati added.

The BSP entered into an electoral alliance with Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party (SP) and Chaudhary Ajit Singh-led Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) in Uttar Pradesh for the Lok Sabha polls.

The alliance, however, failed to make an impact in the politically crucial state. While the BSP managed to win ten seats, SP got five seats and RLD drew a blank.

Samajwadi Party leader Ramashankar Vidyarthi Monday said BSP supremo Mayawati's decision of going solo in all future elections will "weaken" the fight for social justice.

Samajwadi Party leader Ramashankar Vidyarthi Monday said BSP supremo Mayawati's decision of going solo in all future elections will "weaken" the fight for social justice. Mayawati on Monday declared that her party in the future will contest all elections "small and big" on its own, signalling the end of the much-discussed Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Samajwadi Party (SP) alliance forged for the Lok Sabha polls. "She is speaking against the Samajwadi Party in haste and due to the Dalit support to the SP and its leader Akhilesh Yadav. She is weakening the fight for social justice," Vidyarthi told reporters The SP national general secretary said the 'Dalit samaj' is getting connected with the Samajwadi Party and its chief Akhilesh Yadav in a big way. "People know the reality about what the 'malkin' of the alliance has done," he said. Mayawati's announcement came a day after she held a meeting with party workers to review the BSP's performance in the recent Lok Sabha polls. "Everyone is aware that forgetting everything of the past as also the anti-BSP and anti-Dalit decisions like reservation in promotions and bad law and order during the SP rule in 2012-2017, BSP adhered to the 'gathbandhan dharma' with the Samajwadi Party in the interest of the country," she tweeted in Hindi. "But the SP's attitude after the elections has forced the BSP to think, will it be possible to defeat the BJP in the future? This is not possible," she said. "Therefore, in the interest of the party and the movement, the party will contest all small and big elections on its own strength," Mayawati added. The BSP entered into an electoral alliance with Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party (SP) and Chaudhary Ajit Singh-led Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) in Uttar Pradesh for the Lok Sabha polls. The alliance, however, failed to make an impact in the politically crucial state. While the BSP managed to win ten seats, SP got five seats and RLD drew a blank.

Mayawati weakening fight for social justice, says SP after BSP's alliance snub

The BJP's "one nation, one election" idea aimed at having simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assemblies polls, saying it is a BJP ploy to win all elections through one-time "manipulation" of EVMs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/mayawati-gives-brother-and-nephew-key-party-posts-229741">Mayawati</a> hurled the allegation, describing even the BJP landslide victory in the last Lok Sabha election as "doubtful".

The new gimmick of 'one nation, one election' is a BJP's ploy to win the Lok Sabha and assembly elections by a single 'dhandhli' (manipulation) misusing the EVMs," she said.

"It will put the nation in an era of casteism making it free from any opposition," she added, addressing a party meeting convened to discuss the purported "national concern" over the alleged "hijacking" of the democracy via EVMs here.

"If there is no manipulation in the BJP's victory and if it has the majority votes by its side, why is the party shying away from going to the people and avoiding elections through ballots," a BSP statement quoted her as asking.

The meeting was also attended by the BSP's representatives from other states, who alleged that the Election Commission was working on directions of the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

"The way the EC bowed before the prime minister also gives rise to the apprehension over the free and fair polls in the country and weakening of the democracy," she alleged and demanded that "constitutional bodies should find a solution to the people's concern".

She said the BJP's victory is "unexpected and against the people's mandate", which is not possible without a "planned manipulation and conspiracy".

The BSP supremo demanded that elections in India be held through ballot papers in future.&nbsp;

"All the main opposition political parties are of the view that elections should be held through ballot papers but the BJP and the EC are against it, which has created uneasiness in the country,"&nbsp;she said.

Mayawati also questioned the BJP's keenness on having simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections.

"If the BJP is so keen on one nation, one poll, why didn't it hold the assembly elections in states like Haryana and Maharashtra with the Lok Sabha polls," she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

She asked party workers to remain cautious to deal with discrepancies in the functioning of EVMs during upcoming polls and emphasised upon them to stick to the party's "brotherhood formula" successfully tested in the 2007 Uttar Pradesh assembly polls to ensure that the party's base remains intact.

In the meeting, Mayawati also took stock of the party's readiness for the upcoming assembly elections in Haryana and Maharashtra. 
&nbsp;

The BJP's "one nation, one election" idea aimed at having simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assemblies polls, saying it is a BJP ploy to win all elections through one-time "manipulation" of EVMs.

The BJP's "one nation, one election" idea aimed at having simultaneous Lok Sabha and state assemblies polls, saying it is a BJP ploy to win all elections through one-time "manipulation" of EVMs. Mayawati hurled the allegation, describing even the BJP landslide victory in the last Lok Sabha election as "doubtful". The new gimmick of 'one nation, one election' is a BJP's ploy to win the Lok Sabha and assembly elections by a single 'dhandhli' (manipulation) misusing the EVMs," she said. "It will put the nation in an era of casteism making it free from any opposition," she added, addressing a party meeting convened to discuss the purported "national concern" over the alleged "hijacking" of the democracy via EVMs here. "If there is no manipulation in the BJP's victory and if it has the majority votes by its side, why is the party shying away from going to the people and avoiding elections through ballots," a BSP statement quoted her as asking. The meeting was also attended by the BSP's representatives from other states, who alleged that the Election Commission was working on directions of the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "The way the EC bowed before the prime minister also gives rise to the apprehension over the free and fair polls in the country and weakening of the democracy," she alleged and demanded that "constitutional bodies should find a solution to the people's concern". She said the BJP's victory is "unexpected and against the people's mandate", which is not possible without a "planned manipulation and conspiracy". The BSP supremo demanded that elections in India be held through ballot papers in future. "All the main opposition political parties are of the view that elections should be held through ballot papers but the BJP and the EC are against it, which has created uneasiness in the country," she said. Mayawati also questioned the BJP's keenness on having simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly elections. "If the BJP is so keen on one nation, one poll, why didn't it hold the assembly elections in states like Haryana and Maharashtra with the Lok Sabha polls," she said. She asked party workers to remain cautious to deal with discrepancies in the functioning of EVMs during upcoming polls and emphasised upon them to stick to the party's "brotherhood formula" successfully tested in the 2007 Uttar Pradesh assembly polls to ensure that the party's base remains intact. In the meeting, Mayawati also took stock of the party's readiness for the upcoming assembly elections in Haryana and Maharashtra.

BJP's 'one nation, one poll' a ploy to win all elections by single 'manipulation': Mayawati

BSP Chief Mayawati's brother Anand Kumar was appointed as the vice-president of the party while nephew Akash Anand was made national coordinator.

The party also elected Danish Ali as the leader of BSP in Lok Sabha.

Party leader Ramji Gautam was also appointed as national coordinator.

Early today, Mayawati chaired a meeting with her party office bearers, members, legislators and parliamentarians to chalk out a strategy for upcoming by-elections to 11 Assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh.

Senior officials and all members of parliament were present at the meeting along with state presidents from across the country.

Mayawati had recently announced her decision that the BSP will contest the upcoming by-elections for 11 Assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh alone, stating that her ally Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party's vote base did not support the coalition in the Lok Sabha elections.

The BSP managed to bag 10 seats in Uttar Pradesh, SP won 5 and RLD drew a blank, taking the 'mahagathbandhan'&nbsp;total to 15.&nbsp;

BSP Chief Mayawati's brother Anand Kumar was appointed as the vice-president of the party while nephew Akash Anand was made national coordinator. The party also elected Danish Ali as the leader of BSP in Lok Sabha.

BSP Chief Mayawati's brother Anand Kumar was appointed as the vice-president of the party while nephew Akash Anand was made national coordinator. The party also elected Danish Ali as the leader of BSP in Lok Sabha. Party leader Ramji Gautam was also appointed as national coordinator. Early today, Mayawati chaired a meeting with her party office bearers, members, legislators and parliamentarians to chalk out a strategy for upcoming by-elections to 11 Assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh. Senior officials and all members of parliament were present at the meeting along with state presidents from across the country. Mayawati had recently announced her decision that the BSP will contest the upcoming by-elections for 11 Assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh alone, stating that her ally Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party's vote base did not support the coalition in the Lok Sabha elections. The BSP managed to bag 10 seats in Uttar Pradesh, SP won 5 and RLD drew a blank, taking the 'mahagathbandhan' total to 15.

Mayawati gives brother and nephew key party posts

BSP chief Mayawati on Wednesday said that holding simultaneous national and state elections "appears to be an undemocratic and unconstitutional" idea for a vast country like India as she declined to attend an all-party meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue.

She said that elections in any democracy can never be a problem "nor elections should be weighed from the point of view of expenditure and extravagance".

'One nation, one election' is not an issue before the country, she said. "Elections through ballot papers are actually the national issue and our party will continue its struggle for it."

The BSP president said it was a new drama of the BJP to divert attention from the concerns over "attempts to hijack" democracy through alleged irregularities in the working of electronic voting machine (EVMs).

"Even the idea of one nation, one election for the world's biggest democracy like India, prima facie, appears to be undemocratic and unconstitutional," she said in a party release issued here, asking the BJP to desist from works and mentality that harm constitution and democracy.

Mayawati said she would have attended the all-party meeting called by the prime minister if it was to address a "national concern" over EVMs. She described the idea of simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly polls as a ploy to divert attention from issues like poverty.

Mayawati's comments come on the day an all-party meeting has been convened by Modi to discuss several issues, including the idea of "one nation, one election", the celebration of 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary this year and 75 years of Independence in 2022.

The BSP chief alleged that the people's faith in the electronic voting machines (EVMs) had dwindled to a "worrisome level". 
 
"The stubbornness of conducting elections through electronic voting machines instead of the ballot paper is the real threat to the democracy and Constitution of the country.

"The 'one nation, one election' is, in fact, an attempt to divert the attention from burning national issues such as poverty, inflation, unemployment and increase in violence, and is simply an illusion."

The "one nation, one election", a part of the Bharatiya Janata Party's Lok Sabha election manifesto, has made the Opposition wary of the prospects.

In August last year, the Law Commission had recommended holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies to save public money.&nbsp;

In its draft recommendations, the commission had said simultaneous polls, with an exception of Jammu and Kashmir, would help the government of the day focus on "developmental activities rather than electioneering".

It, however, cautioned that holding simultaneous elections was not possible within the existing framework of the Constitution. 
 
After Modi addressed a NITI Aayog meeting last week, an official release said, "The Prime Minister called for widespread debate and consultations on simultaneous elections for Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabhas, keeping in view various aspects such as the resulting financial savings and consequent better utilisation of resources."

The Niti Aayog had last year suggested synchronised two-phase Lok Sabha and Assembly polls from 2024 to ensure minimum campaign-mode disruption to governance.&nbsp;

BSP chief Mayawati on Wednesday said that holding simultaneous national and state elections "appears to be an undemocratic and unconstitutional" idea for a vast country like India as she declined to attend an all-party meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue.

BSP chief Mayawati on Wednesday said that holding simultaneous national and state elections "appears to be an undemocratic and unconstitutional" idea for a vast country like India as she declined to attend an all-party meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue. She said that elections in any democracy can never be a problem "nor elections should be weighed from the point of view of expenditure and extravagance". 'One nation, one election' is not an issue before the country, she said. "Elections through ballot papers are actually the national issue and our party will continue its struggle for it." The BSP president said it was a new drama of the BJP to divert attention from the concerns over "attempts to hijack" democracy through alleged irregularities in the working of electronic voting machine (EVMs). "Even the idea of one nation, one election for the world's biggest democracy like India, prima facie, appears to be undemocratic and unconstitutional," she said in a party release issued here, asking the BJP to desist from works and mentality that harm constitution and democracy. Mayawati said she would have attended the all-party meeting called by the prime minister if it was to address a "national concern" over EVMs. She described the idea of simultaneous Lok Sabha and assembly polls as a ploy to divert attention from issues like poverty. Mayawati's comments come on the day an all-party meeting has been convened by Modi to discuss several issues, including the idea of "one nation, one election", the celebration of 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary this year and 75 years of Independence in 2022. The BSP chief alleged that the people's faith in the electronic voting machines (EVMs) had dwindled to a "worrisome level". "The stubbornness of conducting elections through electronic voting machines instead of the ballot paper is the real threat to the democracy and Constitution of the country. "The 'one nation, one election' is, in fact, an attempt to divert the attention from burning national issues such as poverty, inflation, unemployment and increase in violence, and is simply an illusion." The "one nation, one election", a part of the Bharatiya Janata Party's Lok Sabha election manifesto, has made the Opposition wary of the prospects. In August last year, the Law Commission had recommended holding simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and state assemblies to save public money. In its draft recommendations, the commission had said simultaneous polls, with an exception of Jammu and Kashmir, would help the government of the day focus on "developmental activities rather than electioneering". It, however, cautioned that holding simultaneous elections was not possible within the existing framework of the Constitution. After Modi addressed a NITI Aayog meeting last week, an official release said, "The Prime Minister called for widespread debate and consultations on simultaneous elections for Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabhas, keeping in view various aspects such as the resulting financial savings and consequent better utilisation of resources." The Niti Aayog had last year suggested synchronised two-phase Lok Sabha and Assembly polls from 2024 to ensure minimum campaign-mode disruption to governance.

'Would've attended all-party meet if it was about EVMs,' says Mayawati

Claiming that the Samajwadi Party's vote base did not support the alliance in the Lok Sabha elections, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/mayawati-prime-ministerial-aspirations-on-hold-221064">Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati</a> on Tuesday announced that she will fight the by-polls to 11 assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh alone, but said this is not a "permanent break" from her alliance with the Samajwadi Party.

"Its not a permanent break. If we feel in future that SP Chief succeeds in his political work, we'll again work together. But if he doesn't succeed, it'll be good for us to work separately. So we've decided to fight the by-elections alone," the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister told ANI.

"We can't ignore political compulsions. In the results of Lok Sabha elections in UP, base vote of Samajwadi Party, the Yadav community, didn't support the party. Even strong contenders of SP were defeated," she asserted.

The statement from the BSP supremo came after reports surfaced that she had asked her party cadre to get ready to contest the upcoming assembly by-polls on their own after her party fared poorly in Lok Sabha polls, despite being in alliance with Samajwadi Party and RLD.

Mayawati, however, also praised Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and said that their relationship will continue in the future.

"Ever since the SP-BSP coalition took place, SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav and his wife Dimple Yadav have given me a lot of respect. I also forgot all our differences in the interest of the nation and gave them respect. Our relation is not only for politics, it will continue forever," she added.

Mayawati had also reportedly asked her MLAs and the newly-elected MPs to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/dont-depend-on-alliances-to-win-votes-mayawati-tells-bsp-leaders-223930"> not depend on allies to win votes</a> and work towards improving the party's organisation.

Eleven Assembly constituencies have fallen vacant after sitting MLAs post winning Lok Sabha elections. Nine of them are from the BJP and one each from the BSP and the SP.

While holding a review meeting with top party leaders of the BSP, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister is said to have claimed that the recent election drubbing was due to the poor performance of the alliance with the Samajwadi Party led by Akhilesh Yadav.

In the Lok Sabha polls, Akhilesh Yadav's wife Dimple lost by over 12,000 votes in Kannauj constituency, his two cousins Akshay Yadav and Dharmendra Yadav lost from Ferozabad and Badaun constituencies.

The BSP and SP contested from 38 parliamentary seats each and gave four seats to the RLD.

However, the alliance could only manage to win only 15 seats--10 by BSP and five by SP-- while the RLD drew a blank.

BJP swept the state by bagging 62 out of the total 80 seats.

On Monday, Hariom Yadav, an SP MLA had said that it was only Mayawati who benefited from the tie-up.

"If the coalition had not happened, Mayawati would have been at 0 and SP would have won 25 seats," Yadav had said.

"The Yadav community voted for her but (Mayawati) vote share went to BJP," he added.

Claiming that the Samajwadi Party's vote base did not support the alliance in the Lok Sabha elections, Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati on Tuesday announced that she will fight the by-polls to 11 assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh alone, but said this is not a "permanent break" from her alliance with the Samajwadi Party.

Claiming that the Samajwadi Party's vote base did not support the alliance in the Lok Sabha elections, Bahujan Samaj Party chief Mayawati on Tuesday announced that she will fight the by-polls to 11 assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh alone, but said this is not a "permanent break" from her alliance with the Samajwadi Party. "Its not a permanent break. If we feel in future that SP Chief succeeds in his political work, we'll again work together. But if he doesn't succeed, it'll be good for us to work separately. So we've decided to fight the by-elections alone," the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister told ANI. "We can't ignore political compulsions. In the results of Lok Sabha elections in UP, base vote of Samajwadi Party, the Yadav community, didn't support the party. Even strong contenders of SP were defeated," she asserted. The statement from the BSP supremo came after reports surfaced that she had asked her party cadre to get ready to contest the upcoming assembly by-polls on their own after her party fared poorly in Lok Sabha polls, despite being in alliance with Samajwadi Party and RLD. Mayawati, however, also praised Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and said that their relationship will continue in the future. "Ever since the SP-BSP coalition took place, SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav and his wife Dimple Yadav have given me a lot of respect. I also forgot all our differences in the interest of the nation and gave them respect. Our relation is not only for politics, it will continue forever," she added. Mayawati had also reportedly asked her MLAs and the newly-elected MPs to not depend on allies to win votes and work towards improving the party's organisation. Eleven Assembly constituencies have fallen vacant after sitting MLAs post winning Lok Sabha elections. Nine of them are from the BJP and one each from the BSP and the SP. While holding a review meeting with top party leaders of the BSP, the former Uttar Pradesh chief minister is said to have claimed that the recent election drubbing was due to the poor performance of the alliance with the Samajwadi Party led by Akhilesh Yadav. In the Lok Sabha polls, Akhilesh Yadav's wife Dimple lost by over 12,000 votes in Kannauj constituency, his two cousins Akshay Yadav and Dharmendra Yadav lost from Ferozabad and Badaun constituencies. The BSP and SP contested from 38 parliamentary seats each and gave four seats to the RLD. However, the alliance could only manage to win only 15 seats--10 by BSP and five by SP-- while the RLD drew a blank. BJP swept the state by bagging 62 out of the total 80 seats. On Monday, Hariom Yadav, an SP MLA had said that it was only Mayawati who benefited from the tie-up. "If the coalition had not happened, Mayawati would have been at 0 and SP would have won 25 seats," Yadav had said. "The Yadav community voted for her but (Mayawati) vote share went to BJP," he added.

Will contest by-polls alone, but not permanent break from Samajwadi Party: Mayawati

Mayawati blames SP cadre for bad performance in LS Polls. Akhilesh Yadav says that He is not worried at all. By-election in 11 assembly seats to take place in UP. Data showed that Mayawati retained her core votes in LS Polls. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: Why Mayawati Quits Grand Alliance In UP?

After the SP-BSP Gathbandhan faced a massive rout in the Uttar Pradesh Lok Sabha elections, both BSP Supremo Mayawati and SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav Tuesday announced to contest the upcoming bypolls alone.

Mayawati and Akhilesh part ways after Lok Sabha rout

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav said the party will fight bypolls alone on all 11 Uttar Pradesh Assembly seats if its alliance with the BSP ends, stressing that he would deliberate on the decision carefully.

After the BSP president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/will-contest-by-polls-alone-but-not-permanent-break-from-samajwadi-party-mayawati-224105">Mayawati announcing her decision to go solo in the bypolls</a>, the alliance with the SP appeared to be falling apart on Tuesday.

Yadav, who was in Ghazipur to visit the residence of SP worker Vijay Yadav to express his condolence after his murder, said, "If the gathbandhan (alliance) has disintegrated or whatever that is being said about the gathbandhan is true, then I will deliberate on it very carefully..."

"When there is no alliance, we will prepare on our own for the upcoming UP bypolls and contest on all the 11 seats. We will be preparing for it and a decision will be taken after consulting senior members of the party," he told reporters.

He said that even if the BSP treads a separate path, it is welcome.

The SP chief said, "At this point of time, the 'gathbandhan' is not important for us. What is more important is that the family of our slain party worker should get justice...I am more concerned over the killing of our workers."

Vijay Yadav was killed by some unidentified people who attacked him after barging into this house on May 24.

Akhilesh Yadav, who was earlier in Azamgarh, the seat from where he won the Lok Sabha election, said, "In 2022, the SP will form a government in Uttar Pradesh and this is our strategy."

Earlier, Mayawati said her party will fight the upcoming bypolls alone but can work with the SP in the future if Yadav is able to "fulfil his duties".

She also said that the Bahujan Samaj Party's ties with the Samajwadi Party "is never going to end" and she will try to ensure that their relationship stays "intact".

The alliance was formed in the run-up to the Lok Sabha polls after a similar tie-up ensured the rout of the BJP from three Lok Sabha seats -&nbsp;Gorakhpur, Phulpur and Kairana -&nbsp;in bypolls held last year after the saffron party swept to power in the state.

But the tie-up this time failed to yield desired results for the SP, which contested 37 of the 80 Lok Sabha seats, and for the BSP which pitted its candidates in 38 seats.

While the BSP wrested 10 seats this time from nil in 2014, the SP won five, the same number of seats it bagged last time. Another ally RLD lost on all the three seats it contested jointly with the SP and the BSP.

The alliance had not fielded candidates in the Congress strongholds of Rae Bareli and Amethi, though the grand old party could retain only Rae Bareli, losing out Amethi to BJP's Smriti Irani.&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav said the party will fight bypolls alone on all 11 Uttar Pradesh Assembly seats if its alliance with the BSP ends, stressing that he would deliberate on the decision carefully.

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav said the party will fight bypolls alone on all 11 Uttar Pradesh Assembly seats if its alliance with the BSP ends, stressing that he would deliberate on the decision carefully. After the BSP president Mayawati announcing her decision to go solo in the bypolls, the alliance with the SP appeared to be falling apart on Tuesday. Yadav, who was in Ghazipur to visit the residence of SP worker Vijay Yadav to express his condolence after his murder, said, "If the gathbandhan (alliance) has disintegrated or whatever that is being said about the gathbandhan is true, then I will deliberate on it very carefully..." "When there is no alliance, we will prepare on our own for the upcoming UP bypolls and contest on all the 11 seats. We will be preparing for it and a decision will be taken after consulting senior members of the party," he told reporters. He said that even if the BSP treads a separate path, it is welcome. The SP chief said, "At this point of time, the 'gathbandhan' is not important for us. What is more important is that the family of our slain party worker should get justice...I am more concerned over the killing of our workers." Vijay Yadav was killed by some unidentified people who attacked him after barging into this house on May 24. Akhilesh Yadav, who was earlier in Azamgarh, the seat from where he won the Lok Sabha election, said, "In 2022, the SP will form a government in Uttar Pradesh and this is our strategy." Earlier, Mayawati said her party will fight the upcoming bypolls alone but can work with the SP in the future if Yadav is able to "fulfil his duties". She also said that the Bahujan Samaj Party's ties with the Samajwadi Party "is never going to end" and she will try to ensure that their relationship stays "intact". The alliance was formed in the run-up to the Lok Sabha polls after a similar tie-up ensured the rout of the BJP from three Lok Sabha seats - Gorakhpur, Phulpur and Kairana - in bypolls held last year after the saffron party swept to power in the state. But the tie-up this time failed to yield desired results for the SP, which contested 37 of the 80 Lok Sabha seats, and for the BSP which pitted its candidates in 38 seats. While the BSP wrested 10 seats this time from nil in 2014, the SP won five, the same number of seats it bagged last time. Another ally RLD lost on all the three seats it contested jointly with the SP and the BSP. The alliance had not fielded candidates in the Congress strongholds of Rae Bareli and Amethi, though the grand old party could retain only Rae Bareli, losing out Amethi to BJP's Smriti Irani.

Samajwadi Party to go solo in Uttar Pradesh Assembly bypolls if BSP tie ends: Akhilesh Yadav

In a clear indication that she is not happy with the performance of the 'gathbandhan' with Samajwadi Party in the just-held Lok Sabha polls, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/no-decision-on-future-of-gathbandhan-in-bsp-review-meeting-223888">BSP chief Mayawati</a> Monday asked party workers not to depend on an alliance to win votes but to improve the party's organisation.

At a meeting of the Bahujan Samaj Party's Uttar Pradesh unit, she also asked the office bearers, MLAS and newly-elected MPs to be prepared to contest the assembly by-elections on their own, sources aware of the development said here.

A total of 11 assembly bypolls are due in UP after MLAs won the Lok Sabha polls.

Her remarks, sources said, are significant as the BSP does not usually contest bypolls.&nbsp;

Nine BJP MLAs won the Lok Sabha elections, while one each from BSP and SP were elected to the lower house.

She told the gathering at the party headquarters here that the BSP won 10 seats in Uttar Pradesh due to BSP's traditional vote bank and the votes of Samajwadi Party could not get transferred to its candidates.

She cited the poor performance of its alliances in various states during assembly and Lok Sabha elections to drive home the point that the BSP will have to strengthen its own organisational structure and not to depend on other parties to win votes.&nbsp;

The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister also pressed for the need to increase the involvement of members of other backward classes in the party organisation.&nbsp;

In a clear indication that she is not happy with the performance of the 'gathbandhan' with Samajwadi Party in the just-held Lok Sabha polls, BSP chief Mayawati Monday asked party workers not to depend on an alliance to win votes but to improve the party's organisation.

In a clear indication that she is not happy with the performance of the 'gathbandhan' with Samajwadi Party in the just-held Lok Sabha polls, BSP chief Mayawati Monday asked party workers not to depend on an alliance to win votes but to improve the party's organisation. At a meeting of the Bahujan Samaj Party's Uttar Pradesh unit, she also asked the office bearers, MLAS and newly-elected MPs to be prepared to contest the assembly by-elections on their own, sources aware of the development said here. A total of 11 assembly bypolls are due in UP after MLAs won the Lok Sabha polls. Her remarks, sources said, are significant as the BSP does not usually contest bypolls. Nine BJP MLAs won the Lok Sabha elections, while one each from BSP and SP were elected to the lower house. She told the gathering at the party headquarters here that the BSP won 10 seats in Uttar Pradesh due to BSP's traditional vote bank and the votes of Samajwadi Party could not get transferred to its candidates. She cited the poor performance of its alliances in various states during assembly and Lok Sabha elections to drive home the point that the BSP will have to strengthen its own organisational structure and not to depend on other parties to win votes. The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister also pressed for the need to increase the involvement of members of other backward classes in the party organisation.

Don't depend on alliances to win votes: Mayawati tells BSP leaders

No decision concerning the future of the Grand Alliance was taken during the BSP review meeting held here on Monday, claimed party sources.

No discussions took place on the future of BSP's alliance with the Samajwadi Party (SP) and RLD, they added. The meeting was chaired by party supremo Mayawati.

The meeting was held to accesses party's poor performance in Uttar Pradesh in the recently held Lok Sabha elections.

Riding high on Modi-wave, BJP bagged 62 seats in Uttar Pradesh, while BSP and SP managed to bag only 10, 5 seats respectively. RLD drew a blank.

"It was a closed-door review meeting, election results were discussed. It was analyzed why we lost, how we lost. Several issues including EVMs were discussed. No decision or discussion took place on the future of Gathbandhan," said a party source.

Newly-elected BSP parliamentarians, Lok Sabha elections candidates, zone in-charges and district presidents took part in the meeting at the party's office in the national capital.&nbsp;

No decision concerning the future of the Grand Alliance was taken during the BSP review meeting held here on Monday, claimed party sources. No discussions took place on the future of BSP's alliance with the Samajwadi Party (SP) and RLD, they added.

No decision concerning the future of the Grand Alliance was taken during the BSP review meeting held here on Monday, claimed party sources. No discussions took place on the future of BSP's alliance with the Samajwadi Party (SP) and RLD, they added. The meeting was chaired by party supremo Mayawati. The meeting was held to accesses party's poor performance in Uttar Pradesh in the recently held Lok Sabha elections. Riding high on Modi-wave, BJP bagged 62 seats in Uttar Pradesh, while BSP and SP managed to bag only 10, 5 seats respectively. RLD drew a blank. "It was a closed-door review meeting, election results were discussed. It was analyzed why we lost, how we lost. Several issues including EVMs were discussed. No decision or discussion took place on the future of Gathbandhan," said a party source. Newly-elected BSP parliamentarians, Lok Sabha elections candidates, zone in-charges and district presidents took part in the meeting at the party's office in the national capital.

No decision on future of 'Gathbandhan' in BSP review meeting

Mayawati never said it in so many words. But the BSP supremo threw enough hints during the poll campaign that she considered herself to be in the race for the prime minister's post, should the opposition manage to contain the BJP.&nbsp;

At a rally in Ambedkarnagar, for example, she recalled that she has been elected to the Lok Sabha from that seat in the past.

"Time will tell. If all goes well, I will have to seek election from here again," she said, seemingly referring to the possibility of her entering Parliament through a by-election later, if something opened up in New Delhi.&nbsp;

The results, however, have been a disappointment for the four-time Uttar Pradesh chief minister, who former prime minister P V Narasimha Rao famously called a "miracle of democracy" when she became the CM the first time in 1995.&nbsp;

The BJP has trumped her Bahujan Samaj Party's alliance with Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party in the state. Yet her own party has done better than in 2014 Lok Sabha polls when it drew a complete blank.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/bjps-journey-from-just-two-seats-in-lok-sabha-in-1984-to-winning-two-back-to-back-majority-221039">BJP's journey from just two seats in Lok Sabha in 1984 to winning two back-to-back majority</a>

The alliance in UP alliance happened against all odds, ending a bitter parting of ways between the two sides nearly 25 years ago.&nbsp;

SP workers had then attacked a BSP legislators' meeting at the state guest house in Lucknow and reportedly roughed her up.&nbsp;

Mayawati referred to the infamous episode more than once even during the joint press conference where she and Akhilesh Yadav announced their "gathbandhan" earlier this year.&nbsp;

Born on January 15, 1956, the daughter of a postal worker, Mayawati did her BA from Delhi University, following it up with a BEd from Meerut University.&nbsp;

Dalit leader Kanshi Ram spotted her potential when she was a government school teacher in Delhi, also preparing to take the civil services exam.&nbsp;

He is supposed to have told her that she was destined for bigger things.&nbsp;

Why become an IAS officer when she could be a community leader from whom IAS officers take their orders, she was told.&nbsp;

In 1984, she joined Kanshi Ram when he founded the BSP.&nbsp;

After three failed attempts, Mayawati made it to the Lok Sabha for the first time in 1989.&nbsp;

Mayawati was elected the BSP president in December 2003, about two years after Kanshi Ram had declared she would be his successor.&nbsp;

By that time, she had been the UP chief minister thrice. When she took oath the first time in 1995, she was the youngest CM the state had seen till then and the first Dalit woman to reach the post anywhere in the country.&nbsp;

That government, and the ones formed in 1997 and 2002, lasted just months. But Mayawati served a full five-year term when she became CM the fourth time in 2007.&nbsp;

She earned a reputation of being a no-nonsense CM who ordered transfers and suspensions of IAS and IPS officers in bulk and sent high-profile mafia dons behind bars.&nbsp;

But over the years, in and out of power, she attracted a slew of controversies, beginning with corruption charges.&nbsp;

Mayawati's assets had crossed Rs 110 crore when she filed a Rajya Sabha election affidavit in 2012. In 2007-08 assessment year, she paid Rs 26 crore as income tax, placing her among the 20 top taxpayers in the country. &nbsp;

She has been photographed with huge garlands of currency notes. Her critics see this accumulation of wealth as a sign of corruption. She explains away much of it as gifts from supporters.&nbsp;

The alleged Taj Heritage Corridor scam dogged her for years, and she has charged with possessing assets disproportionate to her income.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lok-sabha-election-2019-there-is-no-place-for-dynasty-rulers-corrupt-leaders-in-this-nation-says-yogi-adityanath-220949">'There is no place for dynasty rulers, corrupt leaders in this nation' says Yogi Adityanath</a>

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She has also faced criticism over her "autocratic" style of functioning, apparently even insisting that bureaucrats remove their shoes when they visit her. In the party, she hasn't allowed a second rung of leadership to emerge.&nbsp;

But for millions of Dalits and others -- the BSP has over the decades worked hard to include Muslims and even upper caste Hindus in its fold the controversies don't seem to matter.&nbsp;

For them, she remains "behenji", an elder sister.&nbsp;

Mayawati never said it in so many words. But the BSP supremo threw enough hints during the poll campaign that she considered herself to be in the race for the prime minister's post, should the opposition manage to contain the BJP.

Mayawati never said it in so many words. But the BSP supremo threw enough hints during the poll campaign that she considered herself to be in the race for the prime minister's post, should the opposition manage to contain the BJP. At a rally in Ambedkarnagar, for example, she recalled that she has been elected to the Lok Sabha from that seat in the past. "Time will tell. If all goes well, I will have to seek election from here again," she said, seemingly referring to the possibility of her entering Parliament through a by-election later, if something opened up in New Delhi. The results, however, have been a disappointment for the four-time Uttar Pradesh chief minister, who former prime minister P V Narasimha Rao famously called a "miracle of democracy" when she became the CM the first time in 1995. The BJP has trumped her Bahujan Samaj Party's alliance with Akhilesh Yadav's Samajwadi Party in the state. Yet her own party has done better than in 2014 Lok Sabha polls when it drew a complete blank. Also Read: BJP's journey from just two seats in Lok Sabha in 1984 to winning two back-to-back majority The alliance in UP alliance happened against all odds, ending a bitter parting of ways between the two sides nearly 25 years ago. SP workers had then attacked a BSP legislators' meeting at the state guest house in Lucknow and reportedly roughed her up. Mayawati referred to the infamous episode more than once even during the joint press conference where she and Akhilesh Yadav announced their "gathbandhan" earlier this year. Born on January 15, 1956, the daughter of a postal worker, Mayawati did her BA from Delhi University, following it up with a BEd from Meerut University. Dalit leader Kanshi Ram spotted her potential when she was a government school teacher in Delhi, also preparing to take the civil services exam. He is supposed to have told her that she was destined for bigger things. Why become an IAS officer when she could be a community leader from whom IAS officers take their orders, she was told. In 1984, she joined Kanshi Ram when he founded the BSP. After three failed attempts, Mayawati made it to the Lok Sabha for the first time in 1989. Mayawati was elected the BSP president in December 2003, about two years after Kanshi Ram had declared she would be his successor. By that time, she had been the UP chief minister thrice. When she took oath the first time in 1995, she was the youngest CM the state had seen till then and the first Dalit woman to reach the post anywhere in the country. That government, and the ones formed in 1997 and 2002, lasted just months. But Mayawati served a full five-year term when she became CM the fourth time in 2007. She earned a reputation of being a no-nonsense CM who ordered transfers and suspensions of IAS and IPS officers in bulk and sent high-profile mafia dons behind bars. But over the years, in and out of power, she attracted a slew of controversies, beginning with corruption charges. Mayawati's assets had crossed Rs 110 crore when she filed a Rajya Sabha election affidavit in 2012. In 2007-08 assessment year, she paid Rs 26 crore as income tax, placing her among the 20 top taxpayers in the country. She has been photographed with huge garlands of currency notes. Her critics see this accumulation of wealth as a sign of corruption. She explains away much of it as gifts from supporters. The alleged Taj Heritage Corridor scam dogged her for years, and she has charged with possessing assets disproportionate to her income. Watch: 'There is no place for dynasty rulers, corrupt leaders in this nation' says Yogi Adityanath × She has also faced criticism over her "autocratic" style of functioning, apparently even insisting that bureaucrats remove their shoes when they visit her. In the party, she hasn't allowed a second rung of leadership to emerge. But for millions of Dalits and others -- the BSP has over the decades worked hard to include Muslims and even upper caste Hindus in its fold the controversies don't seem to matter. For them, she remains "behenji", an elder sister.

Mayawati: Prime ministerial 'aspirations' on hold

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Monday tweeted a picture with Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/mayawati-meets-akhilesh-yadav-after-exit-polls-projections-220072">holding discussions</a>. The tweet in Hindi read, "Ab agale kadam ki tayyari (Now, preparing for the next step)".&nbsp;

According to reports, Yadav drove to the residence of Mayawati in the morning and held closed-door talks with her for about an hour.

Aiming to check the return of NDA at the Centre, Mayawati had opted to sink decades-long differences to enter into an alliance with the SP for the Lok Sabha election.

In the 2014 general election, the BJP had won 71 seats, ally Apna Dal bagged 2, Samajwadi Party 5 and the Congress 2, while the BSP drew a blank.

The BJP's impressive show in Uttar Pradesh helped the BJP to pull off a record 282 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha to oust the Congress, which was decimated to just 44 seats.

With 80 Lok Sabha seats, Uttar Pradesh has the largest number of seats in the lower house of Parliament.

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अब अगले क़दम की तैयारी... <a href="https://t.co/jrnI4TNoNK">pic.twitter.com/jrnI4TNoNK</a>
— Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) <a href="https://twitter.com/yadavakhilesh/status/1130422061791416320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This time around, the pollsters predict the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/lions-share-of-uttar-pradeshs-seats-going-to-bjp-predict-exit-polls-219936">Bharatiya Janata Party stealing a lion's share</a> on the total 80 parliamentary constituencies.&nbsp;

The exit polls have predicted that the BJP-led NDA will again get the lion's share of Uttar Pradesh's 80 Lok Sabha seats. While Times Now-VMR says NDA will get 58 seats in UP, C-Voter is a little conservative predicting 38 seats for it. The poll of polls, a collection of various exit polls, predicts 43 seats for NDA.

Meanwhile, Telugu Desam Party chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/chandrababu-naidu-calls-on-mamata-banerjee-discusses-formation-of-non-bjp-government-220201">N Chandrababu Naidu met his West Bengal counterpart</a> in Kolkata today.&nbsp;

Naidu, who reached here from Amaravati, held a 45-minute-long meeting with Banerjee on the future strategies of the "Mahagatbandhan" (Grand Alliance), the highly-placed sources said.

The meeting also discussed possibilities of forming a non-BJP government including regional parties with the support of the Congress.

Top opposition leaders will meet in the national capital on Tuesday to discuss the political situation and possibilities of a non-NDA alliance to stake claim for government formation.

According to sources, leaders of opposition parties such as the Congress, TDP, Left parties, BSP, NCP and TMC will <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/notwithstanding-exit-polls-opposition-leaders-set-to-meet-tomorrow-220222">informally meet on Tuesday</a> to discuss the way forward in case the NDA fails to get to the majority mark.

Ahmed Patel and Ghulam Nabi Azad of the Congress, Sharad Pawar of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), TDP's Naidu, Satish Chandra Misra of the BSP, Sitaram Yechury of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), D Raja of the Communist Party of India (CPI) and Derek O'Brien of the TMC are expected to take part in Tuesday's meeting among others.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Monday tweeted a picture with Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati after holding discussions. The tweet in Hindi read, "Ab agale kadam ki tayyari (Now, preparing for the next step)".

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Monday tweeted a picture with Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati after holding discussions. The tweet in Hindi read, "Ab agale kadam ki tayyari (Now, preparing for the next step)". According to reports, Yadav drove to the residence of Mayawati in the morning and held closed-door talks with her for about an hour. Aiming to check the return of NDA at the Centre, Mayawati had opted to sink decades-long differences to enter into an alliance with the SP for the Lok Sabha election. In the 2014 general election, the BJP had won 71 seats, ally Apna Dal bagged 2, Samajwadi Party 5 and the Congress 2, while the BSP drew a blank. The BJP's impressive show in Uttar Pradesh helped the BJP to pull off a record 282 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha to oust the Congress, which was decimated to just 44 seats. With 80 Lok Sabha seats, Uttar Pradesh has the largest number of seats in the lower house of Parliament. अब अगले क़दम की तैयारी... pic.twitter.com/jrnI4TNoNK — Akhilesh Yadav (@yadavakhilesh) May 20, 2019 × This time around, the pollsters predict the Bharatiya Janata Party stealing a lion's share on the total 80 parliamentary constituencies. The exit polls have predicted that the BJP-led NDA will again get the lion's share of Uttar Pradesh's 80 Lok Sabha seats. While Times Now-VMR says NDA will get 58 seats in UP, C-Voter is a little conservative predicting 38 seats for it. The poll of polls, a collection of various exit polls, predicts 43 seats for NDA. Meanwhile, Telugu Desam Party chief and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu met his West Bengal counterpart in Kolkata today. Naidu, who reached here from Amaravati, held a 45-minute-long meeting with Banerjee on the future strategies of the "Mahagatbandhan" (Grand Alliance), the highly-placed sources said. The meeting also discussed possibilities of forming a non-BJP government including regional parties with the support of the Congress. Top opposition leaders will meet in the national capital on Tuesday to discuss the political situation and possibilities of a non-NDA alliance to stake claim for government formation. According to sources, leaders of opposition parties such as the Congress, TDP, Left parties, BSP, NCP and TMC will informally meet on Tuesday to discuss the way forward in case the NDA fails to get to the majority mark. Ahmed Patel and Ghulam Nabi Azad of the Congress, Sharad Pawar of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), TDP's Naidu, Satish Chandra Misra of the BSP, Sitaram Yechury of the Communist Party of India (Marxist), D Raja of the Communist Party of India (CPI) and Derek O'Brien of the TMC are expected to take part in Tuesday's meeting among others. (With inputs from agencies)

Preparing for the 'next step,' Akhilesh Yadav tweets picture with Mayawati after holding discussions 

The Maha Exit poll 2019 of Zee Media Network predicts National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to win more than 300 seats in Lok Sabha election 2019, and that is a massive victory. So will PM Modi is getting a 2nd term for sure? or there is something more to witness on the judgement day on 23rd May?

Maha Exit Poll 2019: Over 300 seats for NDA; Modi set for 2nd term

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