Lucknow: A recent meeting between farmer leader Rakesh Tikait and Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak has added fuel to the speculation surrounding political shifts ahead of the 2027 state elections. Though termed a "courtesy call" by both parties, the timing amid growing mobilisation in Western UP suggests broader electoral calculations are underway.
Tikait’s subsequent praise for BSP chief Mayawati, calling her the “No. 1 CM” and lauding her farmer-friendly policies, has further deepened curiosity. While he added that CM Yogi Adityanath could earn similar regard through comparable efforts, observers interpret these remarks as an attempt to recalibrate political influence while remaining noncommittal to any single bloc.
Tikait, who played a key role during the farmers’ protests, had previously shown a tilt toward the Samajwadi Party, benefitting SP in both 2022 and 2024 elections. His recent statements and meetings, however, hint at a strategic repositioning.
Western Uttar Pradesh dominated by Jat and agrarian votes remains a decisive battleground. The BJP, which saw setbacks in the region in 2022 and 2024, is believed to be working to rebuild its support base.
Political analysts suggest that BJP’s outreach to Tikait, including earlier meetings with ex-DGP Prashant Kumar and now Deputy CM Pathak, is part of that effort.
If Tikait distances himself from SP, it could challenge Akhilesh Yadav’s PDA-based consolidation strategy. Simultaneously, a potential BSP resurgence could fragment opposition votes, reshaping UP’s political terrain once again.
