In a major shake-up within the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), party president Mayawati on Wednesday expelled senior leaders Ashok Siddharth and Nitin Singh over allegations of encouraging groupism and engaging in anti-party activities.
Action Taken After Prior Warning
According to party insiders, Mayawati had previously warned both leaders about their conduct before taking the final decision to remove them from the party. The move is seen as part of her ongoing efforts to tighten control over the party’s internal affairs ahead of key political battles.
Who is Ashok Siddharth?
A former Rajya Sabha MP, Ashok Siddharth has been a long-time BSP strategist, having served as the party’s in-charge for multiple southern states. Notably, he is also the father-in-law of Akash Anand, Mayawati’s nephew and her chosen political successor. His expulsion marks a significant development in the party’s leadership structure.
Nitin Singh Also Axed
Alongside Siddharth, BSP’s central-state coordinator Nitin Singh has also been shown the door. Both leaders were accused of engaging in practices that undermined the party’s unity.
What This Means for BSP
Mayawati’s decision signals a strong stance against internal dissent as she looks to consolidate her party’s position before upcoming elections. The expulsion of a senior leader closely linked to her successor has raised eyebrows, sparking speculation about possible internal conflicts within BSP’s leadership.