Samajwadi Party feud: Unseated by son Akhilesh, Mulayam left with 'few options'

After being unseated from the Samajwadi Party’s top post, losing its symbol to Uttar Pradesh chief minister and his son Akhilesh Yadav, party patriarch Mulayam Singh Yadav has been left with very few options to stamp his authority considering the fast-approaching assembly elections. 

Mulayam, who virtually conceded defeat a few days ago by agreeing to act as a ‘Margdarshak’ for the ruling party may be left as a mere ‘darshak’ (spectator) as far as the ticket distribution is concerned.

However, Mulayam still has an option to float a new political party in the poll-bound state but even that venture doesn’t hold a strong ground considering his son’s growing popularity and defiance.

Truce on cards?

Mulayam Singh can pull down the curtains on ongoing feud within the Samajwadi Party and act as its ‘Margdarshak’ (chief patron). But he is in no position to choose candidates according to his preference. However, this will jeopardise the situation of his younger brother Shivpal who is not happy with Akhilesh’s tactics.

Read | Akhilesh Yadav gets Samajwadi Party and Cycle symbol, seeks Mulayam's blessings ahead of UP polls

To move to Lok Dal

Certainly, party’s senior most leader can think of ‘plan B’ that will associate him to Lok Dal and field the candidates of his choice on its symbol.

Fight election independently

Mulayam can also choose to ask his close associates to fight election as independent candidates in a bid to cut the vote share of the Samajwadi Party.

Knock SC door

Mulayam could also go to the Supreme Court against the Election Commission verdict favouring his son.

Read | Election 2017 | Mulayam loses Samajwadi Party, Cycle symbol to Akhilesh: What is next for him?