Ajay Kumar | Senior Journalist
In the political landscape of Uttar Pradesh, Mulayam Singh Yadav remains an enduring symbol of grassroots power and tactical brilliance. From a wrestler in rural Saifai to a towering political figure in both Lucknow and Delhi, Mulayam carved out a formidable legacy.
However, his son Akhilesh Yadav, despite inheriting this legacy, is still striving to match Netaji’s stature. After nearly 15 years in active politics, Akhilesh has yet to secure a decisive electoral victory solely on his own strength, though recent developments suggest a shift in momentum.
Mulayam’s Legacy: The MY Formula and Mass Connect
Mulayam Singh Yadav built the Samajwadi Party into a dominant force by consolidating a powerful MY (Muslim-Yadav) vote base. His political style was deeply rooted in grassroots engagement—visiting villages, addressing workers directly, and forging strategic alliances when necessary.
From 1996 to 2004, the party steadily grew under his leadership, peaking at 35 Lok Sabha seats in 2004. His charisma, coupled with a sharp understanding of caste equations, made him a formidable opponent.
Akhilesh’s Journey: From ‘Laptop CM’ to Political Strategist
When Akhilesh became Chief Minister in 2012, he was seen as a modern, development-oriented leader. Initiatives like laptop distribution, improved roads, and better electricity supply earned him popularity among youth.
However, electoral setbacks followed. The party was reduced to 47 seats in the 2017 Assembly elections and just five seats in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. These defeats raised questions about his leadership and ability to carry forward Mulayam’s legacy.
2024 Breakthrough: The Rise of PDA Politics
The turning point came in the 2024 Indian general elections. The Samajwadi Party won 37 out of 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh—surpassing Mulayam’s 2004 record.
Akhilesh’s new PDA formula (Backward, Dalit, Minority) proved to be a game-changer. By moving beyond the traditional MY equation and limiting Yadav candidates, he broadened the party’s appeal. The strategy attracted support from diverse communities, including upper castes, positioning the party as a strong challenger in the state.
A Shift in Political Style
Unlike Mulayam’s aggressive, mass-driven approach, Akhilesh relies on strategy, alliances, and modern communication tools like social media. His rallies draw significant youth participation, and his messaging focuses more on governance issues such as unemployment, inflation, and social justice.
Yet, challenges remain. Without Mulayam’s towering presence, internal party management and maintaining a cohesive voter base continue to test his leadership.
The Road to 2027: Real Test Ahead
As Uttar Pradesh heads toward the 2027 Assembly elections, the effectiveness of the PDA formula will face its biggest test. While expanding beyond caste-based politics has helped inclusivity, it also risks weakening the party’s traditional support base.
Akhilesh must now strengthen the party organization, maintain unity, and convert electoral gains into sustained political dominance.
Legacy vs Leadership: A Defining Contrast
Mulayam Singh Yadav built the party with raw political instinct and grassroots strength. Akhilesh Yadav, in contrast, represents a blend of modern strategy and developmental politics.
The 2024 results indicate that he has revived the party and carved out his own political space. But surpassing Netaji requires more than electoral success—it demands long-term trust, organizational depth, and consistent performance.
The bicycle has regained speed, but the journey is far from over. Uttar Pradesh now watches closely: can Akhilesh Yadav truly step out of his father’s shadow and lead the Samajwadi Party to new heights?
The answer may well unfold in 2027.
