Samajwadi Party leader Ravidass Mehrotra envisions a transformed INDIA alliance under Akhilesh Yadav’s leadership, one strong enough to challenge the BJP’s stronghold. In a candid conversation with IANS in Lucknow, he outlined why SP’s chief is the ideal candidate to steer the opposition.
‘We firmly believe Akhilesh Yadav should lead the INDIA alliance. His command would make it unassailable, with no one daring to challenge his stature,’ Mehrotra remarked. This push reflects SP’s ambition to play a pivotal role in national opposition politics.
Commenting on Naseemuddin Siddiqui’s Congress resignation, Mehrotra ruled out a BJP switch. ‘Having left BSP before, Siddiqui won’t go to BJP. Post-Congress, SP is his natural home.’ He reiterated SP’s unique position as UP’s development engine and problem-solver.
With BJP facing public wrath, Mehrotra predicted triumph in 2027. ‘Disenchantment is rife. Change is underway, leading to SP’s landslide victory and Akhilesh Yadav’s return as CM.’
He didn’t spare the Yogi regime on safety issues, referencing Amroha’s troubling incident. ‘New laws exist on paper, but reality shows no justice for victims. Crimes against women persist unchecked.’
The SIR exercise drew sharp criticism too. ‘Deletions from voter rolls have hit the poor, Dalits, OBCs, and minorities hardest. Mismatched lists for panchayat and assembly polls scream foul play,’ Mehrotra warned, demanding a probe.