Mayawati Advocates for Ballot Voting to Restore BSP's Strength

BSP's Efforts to Regain Lost Support

The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) is actively working to reclaim its lost voter base ahead of the upcoming 2027 elections. BSP leader Mayawati has taken significant steps to strengthen the party, making bold statements about how the BSP can regain its former glory. She has called for a shift from electronic voting machines (EVMs) to ballot papers for future elections, suggesting that this change could herald the return of the BSP's 'good days'.

Allegations Against Political Parties

Mayawati has accused both the ruling and opposition parties of being casteist. She claims that these parties are covertly collaborating with self-serving individuals from Dalit and other backward communities to form new organizations and parties. Their aim, she argues, is to fragment the Bahujan vote in states like Uttar Pradesh, thereby weakening the BSP.

Concerns Over EVM Integrity

The BSP chief raised serious concerns regarding the integrity of EVMs, alleging that manipulations are being made to defeat their candidates, which could erode the trust of Dalits and marginalized communities in the BSP. She pointed out that rival parties are transferring Bahujan votes to smaller parties for political gain, enabling some candidates to win. Notably, several opposition parties have also begun questioning the reliability of EVMs.

Future Elections and Political Change

Mayawati expressed her desire for all future elections to be conducted via ballot papers. However, she acknowledged that under the current government, this is unlikely to happen. She believes that a change in power could make this possible. Furthermore, she cautioned party workers about various self-serving organizations that falsely associate themselves with the Bahujan movement, stating they have no real connection to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Kanshiram, or the BSP.

Economic Concerns for the Bahujan Community

She highlighted that leaders who attain positions as MPs or ministers for personal gain do not benefit the Dalit community. Mayawati expressed her worries about the country's economic situation, noting that the contribution of the Bahujan community to the GDP is minimal. She emphasized that inclusive development is unattainable without equal participation for all. Additionally, she condemned the politicization of tragic events, such as the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam.