Political shakeup in Uttar Pradesh: Yogi's clout grows

 

In the ever-evolving political landscape of Uttar Pradesh, rumors are swirling that significant changes are on the horizon. My sources indicate that Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak are likely to be shown the door after the upcoming byelections. Maurya, in particular, may be reassigned to oversee party affairs, a move that aligns with his previous statement that the Sangh is bigger than the government. This suggests he could be sent to work more closely with the Sangh Parivar.

Shifting Yogi Adityanath, however, presents a unique challenge for the BJP. After Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Yogi is arguably the only leader who can galvanize the electorate with his charismatic appeal. It's worth noting that Maurya, who has been a prominent figure in the opposition against Yogi, lacks the trust of the people of Uttar Pradesh, as evidenced by his electoral defeat. Modi himself has experienced similar intra-party challenges during his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister, making him well-versed in navigating such political intricacies.

Yogi's position is further solidified by his role as the Peethadeesh of the Nath Sampradaya, a religious order with a significant following among Dalits and backward communities. Any attempt to undermine Yogi could jeopardize the BJP's broader electoral prospects, both in UP and nationally. The BJP seems to recognize this, as demonstrated by Yogi's recent activities. He convened a strategic meeting with MLAs and ministers, notably excluding Maurya and Pathak, to devise a winning strategy for the byelections. Additionally, Yogi has presented a comprehensive plan to the central party leadership for winning the 2027 UP elections.

Yogi's firm stance on issues like the Kawad Yatra and the renaming of Azamgarh to Veer Savarkar Nagar underscores his influence in UP, which likely has the backing of PM Modi. The adage "Yogi hi Upyogi hai" aptly captures the BJP's winning formula, positioning Yogi as indispensable to the party's future successes.