BSP – Mayawati attacks SP over Akhilesh Yadav’s new PDA interpretation
BSP – Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati has criticised the Samajwadi Party (SP) over a recent change in the interpretation of its PDA political formula, accusing the party of adjusting its social strategy to suit electoral interests. Her comments followed remarks by SP president Akhilesh Yadav at a Brahmin gathering in Lucknow, where he gave a broader meaning to the letter “P” in PDA.
Mayawati questions SP’s political approach
In a post on X, Mayawati said the BSP has consistently followed the principle of working for the interests of all sections of society. She referred to the Ambedkarite foundation of her party and said the four BSP governments formed in Uttar Pradesh had been guided by the principle of “Sarvajan Hitaya and Sarvajan Sukhaya”.
Taking aim at the SP, she alleged that the party frequently modifies its political position according to electoral requirements. Mayawati described this approach as part of what she called the SP’s caste-based political strategy.
Akhilesh Yadav gives PDA a new meaning
The dispute centres on the PDA formula used by the SP, which traditionally refers to “Pichhde, Dalit, Alpsankhyak” — backward classes, Dalits and minorities.
While speaking at a Brahmin Sammelan in Lucknow earlier this week, Akhilesh Yadav said the letter “P” could also represent “Pandit”. He also alleged that Brahmins were being targeted under the BJP government in Uttar Pradesh.
The remarks have since triggered a response from the BSP, with Mayawati linking the change in terminology to the SP’s efforts to strengthen its support among upper-caste voters.
BSP claims Brahmin support is increasing
Mayawati alleged that the SP had initially projected “P” as “Pichhde” but was now presenting it as “Pandit” after observing what she described as increasing support for the BSP among upper-caste communities, particularly Brahmins.
She further claimed that the BSP had been giving representation to upper-caste candidates, including members of the Brahmin community, and suggested that the SP was reacting to this political development.
The BSP chief characterised the SP’s latest position as evidence of what she considers an inconsistent political strategy aimed at securing electoral advantages.
Appeal to voters across communities
Mayawati also appealed to people from different social groups to remain cautious about what she described as narrow caste-based politics. According to her, electoral strategies designed to attract particular communities may provide temporary political gains but cannot serve the broader interests of society.
The BSP chief maintained that political parties should work toward the welfare of all sections rather than focus primarily on caste-based calculations. Her remarks reflect the continuing political competition among major parties in Uttar Pradesh over support from backward classes, Dalits, minorities and upper-caste communities.
PDA debate adds to political competition
The exchange between Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav comes as political parties in Uttar Pradesh continue to focus heavily on social representation and community outreach. The PDA formula has been an important part of the SP’s political messaging, while the BSP has traditionally presented itself as a party seeking support across different social groups.
Mayawati’s latest statement therefore puts the spotlight on the competing approaches of the two parties and their attempts to consolidate support among different sections of Uttar Pradesh voters. The political debate is likely to remain focused on representation, social alliances and the interpretation of caste-based electoral strategies.