Congress and Samajwadi Party are forming an alliance for UP polls, with Rajendra Pal Gautam emphasizing ‘honorable’ seat-sharing to defeat BJP.
Key Points
- Alliance Goal: Congress and SP aim to defeat BJP in UP elections by contesting together.
- Seat Basis: Gautam says seat-sharing will be based on ‘honorable’ numbers, not past election results.
- Inclusion of Parties: Congress seeks to include smaller parties and Owaisi’s AIMIM in the alliance.
- Public Confidence: Rahul Gandhi’s ‘Bharat Jodo’ yatra boosted Congress’s credibility in key states.
LUCKNOW: Ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly elections, Congress’s UP in-charge Rajendra Pal Gautam has outlined the party’s strategy for an alliance with the Samajwadi Party (SP). Gautam emphasized that the seat-sharing agreement would be based on ‘respectable’ or ‘honorable’ numbers rather than past election data. This approach aims to ensure a strong, unified front against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Gautam stated that Rahul Gandhi has tasked him with revitalizing Congress in UP, comparing the effort to transforming barren land into fertile ground. He expressed confidence that the party’s renewed focus on people’s issues, particularly through initiatives like the ‘Bharat Jodo’ yatra, has bolstered public trust. This confidence translated into strong performance in recent Lok Sabha elections across states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan.
The alliance between Congress and SP is part of the broader INDIA bloc strategy to challenge BJP’s dominance. Gautam clarified that while there may be occasional rhetoric between the two parties, there is no bitterness in their cooperation. He stressed that both parties share a common goal: removing BJP from power and restoring an alternative political narrative in UP.
Seat-Sharing Criteria and Inclusion of Smaller Parties
The basis for seat distribution in the alliance remains a critical discussion point. Gautam indicated that while past election results (2022 and 2024) are relevant, the focus is on ‘honorable’ seats that reflect current political dynamics. He acknowledged that parties experience ups and downs but emphasized Congress’s renewed strength following the ‘Bharat Jodo’ yatra.
Gautam also highlighted the importance of including smaller regional parties in the alliance. He argued that broadening the coalition would strengthen the INDIA bloc’s chances of victory in UP. This includes potential inclusion of parties such as the All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) and even the AIMIM, though he noted that only national parties like Congress can effectively compete with BJP at scale.
The decision on deputy chief minister roles in a potential government will be made post-election, he said. For now, the priority is to form a united front against BJP by securing key seats and mobilizing voter support.
Public Confidence and Electoral Strategy
Gautam attributed the recent electoral successes of Congress to Rahul Gandhi’s leadership and outreach initiatives. He pointed to improved public confidence in the party, particularly after the ‘Bharat Jodo’ yatra, which he described as a turning point in Congress’s political fortunes.
The alliance with SP is seen as a strategic move to consolidate anti-BJP sentiment in UP. Gautam emphasized that the seat-sharing agreement would be transparent and fair, ensuring both parties have a respectable share of contesting seats. This approach is intended to prevent internal conflicts and ensure a cohesive campaign against the BJP.
As preparations for the 2027 UP assembly polls continue, Congress and SP are expected to finalize their seat-sharing agreement soon. The focus will remain on building a strong, inclusive alliance that can challenge the BJP’s stronghold in the state.
