AAP, Samajwadi Party forge alliance for UP bypolls to counter BJP influence

UP News: In a strategic move for the upcoming bypolls, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has pledged its support for the Samajwadi Party (SP) in the by-elections across nine Uttar Pradesh assembly seats scheduled for November 20. Following a meeting in Lucknow, AAP MP and state in-charge Sanjay Singh met SP chief Akhilesh Yadav to confirm this alliance, reinforcing their joint opposition to the ruling BJP.

Concerns Over Election Dates

Singh expressed doubts regarding the fairness of the election process, citing the potential for biased scheduling. "If it’s not suitable for them (BJP), by-elections in Ayodhya won’t happen and dates for bypolls will be changed. All this raises questions on the election commission," Singh said, hinting at possible interference in the bypoll schedule.

Collaborative Effort to Defeat BJP

Singh announced that AAP would actively campaign alongside SP candidates and participate in events to maximize outreach. He emphasized that AAP’s involvement is rooted in opposing what he described as BJP's divisive politics, stating, “Our main aim is to defeat the BJP, which is spreading hate in the country.”

Congress Steps Back, Supports SP

In a notable decision, the Congress has chosen to avoid direct involvement in the bypolls, instead backing SP’s candidates as a part of the INDIA bloc, marking a unified stand against BJP dominance in the state. Singh also criticized Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s recent slogans and public remarks, claiming they distract from pressing state issues.

He pointed to the alleged poor state of law enforcement, education, and job opportunities for OBC youth, remarking, “It seems Yogi Adityanath has no achievement to share with people...the (BJP) government is not giving reservation to OBC youth.”