MUMBAI: Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav has made a strong declaration regarding the party’s position in the ongoing seat-sharing negotiations with the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). Speaking to media, Yadav stated, “There is no place for sacrifice in politics,” emphasizing that the SP will only remain in the alliance if it is accorded a fair share of seats.
The SP has been pressing for five seats in the upcoming elections but has yet to receive a definitive response from the MVA, which includes Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP. Yadav noted that if the MVA does not include the SP in their plans, the party will contest in areas where they have significant support, asserting, “We will contest on those seats which will not harm the alliance”.
SP Maharashtra Chief Abu Azmi echoed Yadav’s sentiments, stating that if their demands for seats continue to be ignored, they would be compelled to contest alone. He expressed his disappointment with the MVA’s lack of response, saying, “It looks like they don’t want to give seats to the Samajwadi Party”. Azmi further highlighted that the SP plans to contest at least 20 seats, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
#WATCH | Delhi | Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav says, "…State (Maharashtra) president of Samajwadi Party will decide – at first we will try to be in alliance. But, if they (MahaVikasAghadi) won't keep us in the alliance, we will contest on those seats where we will get… pic.twitter.com/lEXoZU2Nwx
— ANI (@ANI) October 27, 2024
The backdrop to these developments is the strategic importance of the Maharashtra elections, which Yadav described as pivotal not just for the state but for national politics. He stated, “This is a historic election… When the government in Maharashtra goes, the (Union) government in Delhi will also collapse”.
ALSO READ: Election Countdown: BJP Names 22 More Candidates for Maharashtra
Yadav has also taken a proactive step by announcing candidates for the elections, including Irshad Jahagirdar for Dhule city, which marks the party’s fifth nomination. His remarks underline the urgency of resolving the seat-sharing disputes, as the party seeks to solidify its position and influence ahead of the critical elections.
As discussions continue, the MVA coalition faces increasing pressure to finalize arrangements that satisfy all parties involved, particularly the SP, as they navigate the complex landscape of Maharashtra’s political arena.
ALSO READ: MVA Seals Seat-Sharing Deal, Congress Biggest Gainer in Maharashtra
