UP Politics: Akhilesh Yadav Faces Poster Row in Agra as SP, BSP Battle for Dalit Votes Ahead of 2027

Political tensions are rising in Agra ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, with the Dalit vote emerging as a key battleground. Ahead of the Samajwadi Party's Dalit conference at the GIC Ground, posters targeting Akhilesh Yadav and the party were put up at several locations across the city. Featuring photographs of Akhilesh Yadav and Azam Khan, the posters referred to their past statements and accused the Samajwadi Party of disrespecting Babasaheb Ambedkar and committing atrocities against Dalits. SP workers tore down the posters and accused the BJP of indulging in petty politics, claiming that the party would face defeat in 2027. Meanwhile, Akhilesh Yadav is attempting to strengthen the Dalit component of the party's PDA formula, which stands for Backward Classes, Dalits and Minorities. The party has also adopted blue-coloured T-shirts for its youth wing, while Akhilesh has been seen wearing a blue scarf as part of its outreach. Agra, considered a traditional stronghold of the BSP and an important centre of Dalit consciousness, has become a significant political arena. Meanwhile, BSP chief Mayawati is also preparing to reclaim her party's Dalit support base. The BSP is planning a major convention in Lucknow on December 6, with a target of bringing 10,000 workers from every Assembly constituency. Preparations are also underway to bring a large number of workers from Agra. The Azad Samaj Party is also seeking to expand its influence among Dalit voters. With the SP, BSP and other parties stepping up their outreach, the battle for Dalit support is gaining momentum well before the 2027 elections.