A new turn has emerged in Uttar Pradesh politics. Former Rajya Sabha MP and Akash Anand’s father-in-law, Ashok Siddharth, who was expelled from the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) earlier this year, has now been taken back into the party after a public apology. BSP chief Mayawati accepted his apology and announced his reinstatement through social media.

The Apology That Changed Equations

On Saturday, Ashok Siddharth shared a detailed note on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), admitting that he had committed mistakes—sometimes knowingly, sometimes under the influence of others. He expressed regret and said he bows down at the feet of Behenji (Mayawati) to sincerely apologize. He assured that he will never act against party rules again and will remain within the discipline of the BSP.

He also clarified that he would not misuse his kinship with Akash Anand, Mayawati’s nephew, for political advantage.

Mayawati’s Response

Responding to his post, Mayawati said:

“Ashok Siddharth, a former Rajya Sabha MP and a long-time member of the BSP who was expelled a few months ago, has today publicly apologized. His expulsion has been revoked and he has been taken back into the party.”

At one point, Ashok Siddharth was considered among Mayawati’s closest associates and held significant influence within the BSP. However, his expulsion on 12 January 2025 for alleged anti-party activities created a rift.

Akash Anand Factor

This development also comes after Mayawati recently reinstated her nephew Akash Anand as BSP’s National Coordinator on 29 August. Earlier this year, both Akash and his father-in-law had faced Mayawati’s displeasure. While Mayawati forgave Akash in April, she had categorically stated that Ashok Siddharth’s mistakes were “unforgivable.”

Her sharp criticism at the time had suggested that Ashok Siddharth not only indulged in factionalism but also jeopardized Akash Anand’s political career. This made his return to BSP seem impossible—until his public apology turned the tables.

The Road Ahead

With Ashok Siddharth’s re-entry, the BSP leadership seems to be consolidating ahead of crucial political battles in Uttar Pradesh. His reinstatement signals that Mayawati is willing to reconcile, provided loyalty and discipline to the party are ensured.