Akhilesh’s CM-style bati-chokha plan: An attempt to stir the Brahmin controversy

Akhilesh Yadav is a seasoned political strategist and is quick to read the political mood. As soon as politics heated up in Uttar Pradesh over the gathering of BJP’s Brahmin MLAs, he hosted a bati-chokha party in Lucknow. During the event, he launched sharp attacks and taunts at the BJP, saying that BJP legislators were sitting together and partying. He remarked that if they had stood up, what would have happened to the government? “We all sit together, eat, and drink,” he said, adding that the BJP legislators were eating while seated—but if they were to stand up against the government, what would become of the Yogi government?

In fact, on December 21, BJP’s Brahmin MLAs and MLCs had gathered in Lucknow under the pretext of a luncheon meeting. In response, on the first day of the new year, Akhilesh Yadav organized a bati-chokha party, which was attended by party leaders and workers who shared the traditional meal.

The party was held at the party headquarters in Lucknow and was attended by Shivpal Yadav along with other MPs and MLAs. During the event, Akhilesh did not miss the opportunity to target the BJP. Referring to the meeting of BJP’s Brahmin legislators held on December 23, he said that the difference between bati-chokha and litti-chokha is merely a regional and linguistic one, and for those who believe in equality, both are essentially the same.

Akhilesh remarked that BJP legislators were sitting and eating litti-chokha, and questioned what would happen if they were to stand up against the government. He also took a swipe at the BJP by saying that the party is now even investigating bati-chokha. The SP chief raised the issue of alleged vote theft under the pretext of SIR, saying that when the Chief Minister claimed that four crore votes had been removed, it sent a message to officials to act dishonestly. He accused the BJP government of pushing people into hardship and crisis, and said that forming an SP government is necessary in the public interest.

It appears that Akhilesh Yadav has his eye on the Brahmin vote bank. This is why his uncle, Shivpal Yadav, had earlier invited Brahmin legislators to come together. Now, Akhilesh Yadav is sending a message that he stands with them. The year 2026 is approaching, leading into 2027, and the goal is clearly in sight. With the assembly elections drawing closer, very little time remains. Party leaders and workers have been urged to strengthen the party booth by booth, maintain discipline in their conduct and language, and stay connected with the people by sharing in their joys and hardships. The repeated signals suggest that the Brahmin vote bank is firmly on Akhilesh Yadav’s political radar.