Mulayam, Kalyan’s past bond recalled in Etah

Etah, steeped in historical significance with luminaries like Amir Khusro and Tulsidas, recently bore witness to a revival of memories as an unusual camaraderie between former adversaries, Mulayam Singh Yadav and Kalyan Singh, resurfaced. Their onceprominent alliance, which played a significant role in shaping Etah’s political landscape, now resides in the annals of history, leaving behind a legacy marked by shifting alliances and entrenched caste dynamics.

Kalyan Singh, synonymous with the Ram Janambhoomi movement, forged an unexpected alliance with MSY, fondly called Maulana Mulayam, during the 2009 LS election in Etah. Contesting as an independent after parting ways with BJP, Kalyan Singh secured a resounding victory, partly owing to the support extended by MSY. However, their brief alignment dissolved with the conclusion of the election, underscoring the transient nature of political affiliations in the region.

Etah’s political narrative is intricately woven with caste considerations, where alliances are forged and dismantled based on intricate caste permutations. The Lodh community, constituting 16 per cent of the electorate, remains steadfast in its allegiance to Kalyan Singh’s legacy, ensuring the success of his son Rajveer Singh alias Raju Bhaiya, who clinched victories in 2014 and 2019 and now seeks a third term. Conversely, Yadavs (14 per cent) align with SP, though BJP recently sought to make inroads among Yadav voters. The recent defection of Kunwar Devendra Yadav, a staunch SP loyalist, to BJP, has made Etah dynamic.

With Yadavs and Lodhs evenly matched in numerical strength, the pivotal role lies with the Shakyas, constituting 8 per cent of the electorate. The exit of Devendra Singh Yadav to BJP prompted SP chief Akhilesh Yadav to pin his hopes on Devesh Shakya, a prominent figure within the Shakya community. To consolidate support, Akhilesh Yadav has intensified efforts to court Jatav voters (12 per cent). At a recent rally, he criticised BJP and RSS, accusing them of harbouring intentions to alter the Constitution, urging voters to perceive the election as a watershed moment with far-reaching implications for generations.

BSP has fielded a Muslim candidate, Mohd Irfan, banking on the support of the 9 per cent Muslims. Irfan’s candidacy poses a potential challenge to Akhilesh’s PDA (Pragatisheel Dalit Alliance) formula, though the extent of its impact remains uncertain.