Akhilesh drops plan for third Rajya Sabha candidate citing cross-voting risk

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav has decided against fielding a third candidate for the Rajya Sabha, citing concerns over cross-voting within his own ranks. The move comes as the party strategizes for the 2027 elections.

Akhilesh reportedly feared that fielding an additional candidate could prompt party MLAs to vote against the official nominees, weakening the party's position. The decision reflects internal coordination challenges within the SP ahead of crucial electoral contests.

The Samajwadi Party has historically struggled with internal voting discipline during Rajya Sabha elections, making the party chief's caution a calculated political move to consolidate strength for the upcoming national elections.