Apna Dal (S) Appoints R.P. Gautam as New Uttar Pradesh President
Apna Dal (S), the party led by Union Minister Anupriya Patel, has appointed R.P. Gautam as its new Uttar Pradesh state president. Gautam, belonging to the Jatav community, a significant voting bloc in Uttar Pradesh, assumes this responsibility in light of upcoming organizational expansion and election preparations.
UP Politics: This appointment signifies a major step by Apna Dal (S) to strengthen its organization in Uttar Pradesh. The party's decision to appoint Gautam, a member of the Jatav caste, is seen as a strategic move to consolidate its support base among Dalit and backward communities, particularly with the upcoming local body elections and the 2027 Assembly elections in mind. It clearly indicates the party's increasing focus on these communities.
Why R.P. Gautam?
Gautam's appointment is considered significant because he previously served as the state president of Apna Dal (S)'s cooperative forum. His dedication and hard work during this tenure earned him the party's trust. Party sources believe his appointment will strengthen the party's hold among Dalit and backward communities. Party leaders are confident that his organizational experience and grassroots connections will benefit the party in upcoming elections.
Anupriya Patel Expresses Confidence
Apna Dal (S) chief and Union Minister Anupriya Patel expressed full confidence in Gautam's leadership, stating that his dedication and commitment will aid the party's expansion. She emphasized that strengthening the organization in Uttar Pradesh and engaging a larger number of backward and Dalit communities is a top priority, and Gautam will play a crucial role in this endeavor.
Backward and Dalit Communities a Priority
The Jatav community holds significant influence in Uttar Pradesh politics. The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has long enjoyed the support of this community. Apna Dal (S)'s move to appoint Gautam is seen as a strategy to garner support from this crucial vote bank.
Impact of Recent Setbacks
Apna Dal (S) recently faced a setback when its then-state president, Rajkumar Pal, resigned, alleging neglect of party workers by Union Minister Anupriya Patel and her husband, Ashish Patel.
Several other leaders, including state secretary Kamlesh Vishwakarma, minority forum state secretary Mohammad Fahim, and district general secretary B.L. Pasi, also left the party. Several district presidents had previously also abandoned the party.
Preparing for Upcoming Elections
Apna Dal (S) is focusing on the upcoming local body elections and the 2027 Assembly elections. The party leadership aims to strengthen its organization at the grassroots level to reach voters from all segments of society. Specifically, engaging the backward and Dalit vote bank is a key component of its strategy. R.P. Gautam's appointment is considered part of this strategy. The party hopes Gautam will utilize his experience and social standing to attract new workers and build their trust in the party.
Challenges for the New President
However, Gautam faces significant challenges. Recent internal dissent and resignations have weakened the party's organization. His primary task will be to reunite party workers and revitalize the organization. He will also need to ensure that the party's base is not limited to a single caste or community but expands its acceptance across all social groups.
