Mayawati attacks SP, Cong over use of blue colour; says symbolism can't erase casteist mindset

Lucknow: Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Friday attacked Samajwadi Party (SP), Congress and other opposition parties over their use of the colour blue, asserting that adopting blue scarves, clothes and stage décor cannot change their "casteist, narrow-minded, feudal and capitalist" mindset.

In a series of posts on X, Mayawati said parties claiming to represent the interests of Dalits, tribals, backward classes and other deprived sections must first cleanse their "heart and mind" before attempting to project themselves as Ambedkarite forces.

She alleged that these parties were merely indulging in symbolism while their outlook towards marginalised communities remained unchanged.

The BSP supremo also took aim at SP's PDA (Pichhda, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) plank and Congress's outreach efforts, accusing them of political opportunism.

According to her, these parties frequently change their stance "like a chameleon", often saying one thing and doing the opposite.

She maintained that the BSP remains the only genuine Ambedkarite party committed to safeguarding the interests of Bahujan communities.

Referring to leaders expelled from the BSP, Mayawati said many of them had switched parties multiple times after being removed for indiscipline, exposing their "self-serving and opportunistic" nature.

She claimed that some of them go on to form small political outfits with the backing of rival parties, but such organisations are incapable of serving the broader interests of Bahujan Samaj.

She further criticised parties that welcome expelled BSP leaders into their fold, saying they should first introspect.

In a veiled attack on Congress, Mayawati described the party as a "sinking ship" and questioned why anyone would jeopardise their political future by joining it.

She also recalled that Dr B.R. Ambedkar had cautioned Bahujan communities against the Congress during his lifetime.

The BSP chief also raised the issue of senior party leader Ashok Siddharth's retirement from politics. She alleged that despite pressure from various quarters, Siddharth did not immediately announce his retirement on the day the BSP advised him to step away from active politics.

According to Mayawati, he eventually made the announcement the following morning after efforts to delay the decision failed. She hinted that the party would reveal more details on the matter at an appropriate time.

Mayawati said BSP workers and supporters should understand these developments in the larger interest of the party and the Bahujan movement.

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