Akash Anand: Rising Figure in Bahujan Samaj Party Politics

Akash Anand is a prominent figure within the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP). Recent events have highlighted his role in the party, particularly in response to controversial statements made by Congress leader Udit Raj against BSP leader Mayawati.

Akash Anand’s Response to Udit Raj’s Statement

Following Udit Raj’s remarks about Mayawati, Akash Anand, serving as the National Coordinator of the BSP, issued a strong reaction. He gave the Uttar Pradesh Police a 24-hour ultimatum to take action against Udit Raj. This ultimatum underscores Anand’s proactive approach in defending the party’s leadership and its core values.

The controversy stemmed from Udit Raj’s statement made during a press conference in Lucknow, where he used objectionable language regarding Mayawati. This led to immediate demands for action from BSP leaders.

BSP’s Reaction and Allegations

The BSP, including figures like Satish Chandra Mishra, has condemned Udit Raj’s statement as an insult to the entire Bahujan community and Dalits. Mishra has called for Udit Raj’s immediate arrest and criticized the Congress party, labeling them as anti-Dalit and anti-women. He pointed to historical instances, such as the treatment of Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, as evidence of the Congress party’s alleged bias against Dalits.

BSP workers also staged protests in Lucknow against Udit Raj, demanding his arrest. The party has further accused the BJP government of colluding with the Congress if they fail to take swift action against Udit Raj.

Wider Political Implications

The incident has broader political implications, with the BSP questioning the silence of Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav on the matter. The BSP suggests that Yadav’s silence implies tacit support for Udit Raj’s statement.

Udit Raj attempted to clarify his remarks, stating that his words should not be linked to the Congress party. He claimed that his statement was made in the context of a conference discussing Dalit, OBC, minority, and tribal issues. Raj alleged that Mayawati has historically misled people by portraying the Congress as anti-Dalit and has used Dr. Ambedkar as a shield to gain power.

He further accused Mayawati of suppressing the efforts and sacrifices of Bahujan activists, and alleged that the BSP has never confronted the RSS. According to Udit Raj, the BSP continues to target the Congress to prevent Dalits from aligning with it.

Protests and Demands for Action

In Lucknow, BSP supporters protested against Udit Raj’s remarks, demanding his arrest and strict action. They submitted a memorandum to the Governor, asserting that Mayawati is not only a respected leader of the Bahujan community but also a beacon for the marginalized and oppressed. Protesters accused Udit Raj of threatening Mayawati and using offensive language against her.

Dr. Anoop Ambedkar, a participant in the protest, stated that Mayawati has served as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh four times and has contributed to the legislative process in the Assembly, Rajya Sabha, and Lok Sabha. He condemned Udit Raj’s remarks as an insult to the Bahujan community and demanded immediate legal action and arrest.