Who is Akash Anand, the next in-line BSP Chief?

New Delhi: Mayawati, the leader of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), has officially designated her political successor during a crucial meeting of party office bearers. Mayawati's nephew, Akash Anand, has been chosen as the heir apparent, set to take over the party leadership in the future. As of now, Mayawati will retain her position as the party chief.

Akash Anand, the appointed political successor, currently serves as the national coordinator of the BSP. His influence was particularly noteworthy during the recent Rajasthan assembly polls, where he held a pivotal role as the party's in-charge. Akash Anand has also actively contributed to the party's efforts in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Telangana. Mayawati entrusted him with responsibilities in a delegation focused on preparing and launching the party's campaign, addressing issues concerning Dalits, religious minorities, OBCs, and tribals.

Despite his relatively young age of 22, Akash Anand entered the political arena in 2017. Holding an MBA degree from London, he made his political debut alongside Mayawati at a rally in Uttar Pradesh's Saharanpur, sharing the stage with prominent figures like Akhilesh Yadav and Ajit Singh.

In 2019, Akash Anand delivered his first rally speech in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, while the BSP was part of the Mahagathbandhan—a coalition opposing both the Congress and BJP—in the lead-up to the 2019 general elections.

Reports suggest that Mayawati has been grooming Akash Anand for a sustained political role. As the 28-year-old son of Mayawati's brother Anand Kumar, Akash Anand has become a familiar presence within BSP circles. On his Instagram profile, he identifies himself as a "young supporter of Baba Saheb's vision. I stand for Education, Empowerment, and Equality."