Priyanka Tiwari
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Suspense crime, Digital Desk : Just weeks after their stunning success against the BJP in Uttar Pradesh during the Lok Sabha elections, cracks are beginning to show in the alliance between the Congress and the Samajwadi Party (SP). Conflicting statements from Congress leaders have cast a shadow of doubt over whether their partnership will continue into the crucial 2027 State Assembly elections.
The winning chemistry between Rahul Gandhi and SP chief Akhilesh Yadav, dubbed the "do ladkon ki jodi" (the duo of two boys), was instrumental in the INDIA bloc's strong performance in UP. The alliance successfully challenged the BJP's dominance, making a united opposition front look like the most viable path to victory in 2027.
However, this week, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai threw a wrench in the works. In a move that surprised many, Rai declared that the Congress party is preparing to contest all 403 assembly seats in UP on its own in 2027. He stated that the party's focus is on strengthening its own organization at the grassroots level, a task that is difficult when in a coalition where it is the junior partner.
This public declaration directly contradicts the apparent bonhomie and strategic success of the recent alliance, where Congress contested just 17 of UP's 80 Lok Sabha seats.
The conflicting messages highlight a classic political dilemma for the Congress in Uttar Pradesh.
The Case for Alliance: Sticking with the SP offers the most realistic and immediate chance to defeat the BJP in the state. The 2024 results proved their combined vote share is a formidable force.
The Case for Going Solo: For decades, the Congress has been a marginal player in UP politics. Contesting all seats, even if it leads to losses, is seen by some state leaders as the only way to rebuild the party's organizational structure from the ground up and revive its connection with voters.
While the final decision will rest with the Congress high command, including Rahul and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who are seen as favoring the alliance, the public contradiction has created uncertainty. It signals internal divisions and raises a critical question for the future of UP politics: will 2027 see a united opposition take on the BJP, or will a three-way battle give the ruling party a crucial advantage?
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