Lok Sabha Elections 2024: In a surprising turn of events, the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD), led by Jayant Chaudhary, has forged an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Uttar Pradesh for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections. This move deals a significant blow to the Samajwadi Party (SP), led by Akhilesh Yadav, which had recently announced a tie-up with the RLD.Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Terms of the allianceUnder the negotiated agreement between the BJP and RLD, the latter will contest on two crucial Lok Sabha seats – Baghpat and Bijnor. Additionally, the RLD will be allocated one Rajya Sabha seat as part of the alliance.Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Samajwadi Party left disappointedThe collaboration between the BJP and RLD comes shortly after the SP and RLD had publicly declared their partnership for the upcoming general elections. The sudden reversal in allegiance has caught many by surprise. Just days ago, Akhilesh Yadav had accused the BJP of employing tactics to destabilize rival parties and lure them into alliances.Lok Sabha Elections 2024: RLDs previous alliancesThe RLD, known for its strong influence among the Jat community, has historically aligned itself with various political entities. In the 2022 Assembly elections, it joined forces with the SP, albeit with limited success. While the SP secured 111 seats, the RLD managed to secure only eight.During the last Lok Sabha elections, the RLD was part of the SP-BSP coalition. Despite contesting key constituencies like Mathura, Baghpat, and Muzaffarnagar, the RLD faced defeat in all three seats.Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Political reactionsSpeculations regarding the RLDs potential collaboration with the BJP had been circulating for some time. However, SP leaders had dismissed such reports, expressing confidence in Jayant Chaudharys loyalty to their cause. Uttar Pradeshs Deputy Chief Minister, Brajesh Pathak, welcomed the development, citing the BJPs commitment to the states progress.Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Unexpected allianceThe unexpected alliance between the RLD and BJP has reshaped the political landscape in Uttar Pradesh, setting the stage for a highly competitive Lok Sabha election. As parties realign their strategies and alliances, the electoral dynamics in the state are poised for a dramatic shift.
