Lucknow: A major political controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh after the Samajwadi Party (SP) announced that it will observe “PDA Day” on the birth anniversary of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) founder Kanshi Ram. BSP supremo Mayawati has launched a sharp and detailed attack on the Samajwadi Party, accusing it of historically disrespecting Dalits, backward classes, and Bahujan icons. Meanwhile, the Samajwadi Party has defended its decision, calling it part of its commitment to social justice and equality.
In her statement, Mayawati alleged that the Samajwadi Party’s conduct and political character have always been against Dalits, Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and the Bahujan community. She said that SP’s decision to celebrate PDA Day on Kanshi Ram’s birth anniversary is nothing more than political drama aimed at securing votes from marginalized communities. According to her, the move is not a genuine tribute but a political strategy driven by electoral interests and deception.
Mayawati referred to the 1993 alliance between BSP and SP, stating that despite the coalition being formed to protect Dalits and weaker sections, atrocities against them did not stop. She accused then Chief Minister Mulayam Singh Yadav of failing to change his government’s approach, which ultimately forced BSP to withdraw support on June 1, 1995. She also mentioned the June 2, 1995 Lucknow State Guest House incident, describing it as a serious example of anti-Dalit hostility, which remains recorded in official records and history.
The BSP chief further accused the Samajwadi Party of disrespecting Bahujan leaders by changing the names of districts and institutions established in their honor. She stated that the BSP government had created Kanshi Ram Nagar district, but the SP government later changed its name. Similarly, she alleged that Sant Ravidas Nagar district, named after the revered saint, was also renamed by SP after coming to power.
Mayawati also claimed that a university established in Lucknow in the name of Kanshi Ram, meant to promote Urdu, Persian, and Arabic languages, was renamed by the SP government. She added that a government hospital in Saharanpur named after Kanshi Ram was also renamed, which she described as an insult to the Bahujan movement and its leadership.
In addition, Mayawati accused the Samajwadi Party of having an anti-Muslim record, alleging that several communal riots occurred during SP governments, resulting in loss of lives and property and affecting thousands of families. She further claimed that the political conduct of SP indirectly helped the BJP strengthen its position in Uttar Pradesh by creating conditions of caste and communal polarization.
Mayawati also questioned why the SP government did not declare state mourning after Kanshi Ram’s death and did not provide him the level of official respect he deserved. She appealed to the Bahujan community to remain cautious of what she described as SP’s anti-Dalit and anti-Bahujan political approach.
In response, the Samajwadi Party defended its decision to observe PDA Day, stating that it reflects the party’s commitment to social justice and empowerment of backward classes, Dalits, and minorities. SP chief Akhilesh Yadav said that PDA represents the unity and rights of backward classes, Dalits, and minorities, and honoring Kanshi Ram is part of recognizing his contribution to social justice.
Akhilesh Yadav stated that Kanshi Ram dedicated his life to empowering marginalized communities and that the Samajwadi Party respects his struggle and legacy. He described the allegations against SP as politically motivated and said the party remains committed to protecting constitutional values, equality, and the rights of weaker sections.
Political observers believe that the controversy reflects growing political competition between BSP and SP over Dalit and backward class support ahead of future elections. While BSP is highlighting past decisions and historical grievances, SP is positioning itself as a party committed to social justice and inclusive politics.
The issue has once again brought Bahujan politics, social justice, and political legacy into sharp focus in Uttar Pradesh, with further political reactions expected in the coming days.
