As BSP succession row rages, who are Mayawati’s 8 key aides

The BSP, led by president Mayawati, has recently been embroiled in a succession row within the party. Mayawati, 70, has made it clear that neither of her nephews, Akash Anand and Ishan Anand, will take on any political roles within the party. This decision came after she "completely freed" Akash from all responsibilities and appointed Ishan as the party's chief sector coordinator. Since 2024, Mayawati has repeatedly fired and reappointed Akash to top party positions.

To maintain her authority, Mayawati has made changes to the organizational roles of her family members and senior leaders. BSP vice-president Anand Kumar, Mayawati's brother, has been tasked with convening regular meetings of the party's two sectors and visiting various states to report on the party's progress. Mayawati has also expanded Kumar's role after removing the post of chief sector coordinator.

The party's current crisis, compounded by a poor performance in recent elections, highlights the challenges posed by the family tussle within the BSP.