In a significant move, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader Mayawati has once again expelled her nephew, Akash Anand, from the party. This decision comes shortly after he was removed from his role as chief national coordinator. The development follows the retirement announcement by Anand’s father-in-law, Ashok Siddharth, who is stepping away from active political life. Although Mayawati had hinted at Anand’s possible reinstatement in the party on the condition of Siddharth’s retirement, she has now confirmed that Anand is completely detached from the BSP and relieved of all duties.
Mayawati has criticized both Siddharth and Anand, accusing them of prioritizing personal and familial interests over the party’s objectives and the Ambedkarite movement. She expressed doubts about Siddharth’s intentions, suggesting that his delayed retirement reflected unchanged motives. Questions were also raised about Anand’s dedication to the party’s cause. This expulsion marks another chapter in the series of ups and downs for Anand within the BSP. Initially removed as national coordinator in May 2024 after controversial remarks during the Lok Sabha election campaign, he was later reinstated and reappointed as chief national coordinator in May 2025.
Last week, Mayawati expressed concerns regarding Anand’s maturity, suggesting it was insufficient for managing significant organizational responsibilities. In a related development, she introduced Ishan Anand, her younger nephew, to senior party leaders, signaling a potential shift in focus toward other family members. Akash Anand’s political journey with the BSP had seen him groomed as Mayawati’s successor, initially being appointed national coordinator in 2019 and formally named her political heir in December 2023. Despite his recent expulsion, Anand had been actively participating in political rallies, including those in Hathras and Gautam Buddha Nagar, as the BSP gears up for the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly election.
Mayawati, now 70 years old, has consistently asserted her commitment to leading the BSP, despite internal calls for the emergence of younger leadership within the party. She has firmly stated that she will personally oversee the candidate selection process, manage the election campaign, and handle fundraising efforts for the upcoming 2027 polls. This reiteration of leadership intent comes amidst the backdrop of Anand’s expulsion and the introduction of Ishan Anand, reflecting Mayawati’s strategic maneuvering as she continues to navigate the party’s future leadership dynamics.