Mayawati Reaches Out to Upper Castes on 70th Birthday
Bahujan Samaj Party president Mayawati launched a significant upper caste outreach on Thursday. She celebrated her 70th birthday with a strong political message from the BSP office in Lucknow.
Brahmins Need Respect, Not Just Symbolic Gestures
Mayawati made a direct appeal to the Brahmin community. She stated that Brahmins need genuine respect and regard at every level. They require appropriate representation and reliable sources of livelihood.
"The Brahmin community does not need 'baati-chokha' from anyone," Mayawati declared. She was referring to recent events where other parties organized community feasts. "They need respect and protection from atrocities."
Criticism of BJP and SP Rule
The BSP chief launched sharp attacks on both the ruling BJP and the opposition Samajwadi Party. She accused them of neglecting Brahmin interests.
Mayawati claimed that only BSP governments have truly fulfilled Brahmin aspirations. She said her party ensured proper participation in ticket distribution and government representation.
Regarding the SP, Mayawati recalled the 1995 guest house incident in Lucknow. She described how SP goons attempted to attack her after the BSP withdrew support from their alliance government.
"During SP rule, hooligans and corrupt individuals dominated Uttar Pradesh," Mayawati asserted. "All communities except Yadavs faced harassment, with Dalits suffering the most."
BSP's 2027 Election Strategy
Mayawati confirmed that her party will contest the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls independently. She ruled out alliances with any other political party.
The BSP chief outlined her party's approach:
- Contest all elections nationwide without alliances
- Focus on protecting interests of multiple communities
- Ensure fair representation for all caste groups
"When BSP returns to power, we will take care of Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Jats and Yadavs," Mayawati promised. She added that her government would also protect Vaishya communities.
Response to Recent Political Developments
Mayawati's comments come days after the BJP warned several Brahmin MLAs and MLCs. These leaders had attended a community-based meeting and dinner.
The BSP chief revealed that not only BJP members, but also SP and Congress leaders have expressed concerns. They worry about alleged neglect and excesses faced by Brahmins under the current government.
"The Brahmin community should not get misled by BJP, Congress or SP," Mayawati advised. "Their wishes have been fulfilled only in BSP governments so far."
Broader Political Vision
Mayawati criticized the SP's current 'PDA' campaign. This initiative focuses on Backward Classes, Dalits and minorities. She contrasted this with BSP's approach of including upper castes.
The BSP leader also addressed concerns about electronic voting machines. She claimed manipulation occurred in previous elections. Despite this, Mayawati affirmed her party's commitment to contesting elections with full strength.
Looking ahead, Mayawati left a small window open for future alliances. She said if a partner can successfully transfer upper caste votes to BSP, they might consider coalition politics. However, she emphasized this would take years to develop.
Mayawati concluded by criticizing the current BJP government's law and order situation. She stated that Dalits and marginalized groups feel deeply disappointed. The BSP chief promised her party would address these concerns while protecting all community interests.
