Former Delhi minister Raaj Kumar Anand made a significant political move on Sunday by joining the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and announcing his candidacy for the Lok Sabha elections from the New Delhi constituency. This decision marks a departure from his previous affiliation with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), from which he resigned in April, citing concerns about the lack of adequate representation for Dalits within the party.
At a press conference following his induction into the BSP, Anand expressed his reverence for Baba Saheb Ambedkar, emphasizing that he felt a strong connection with his new political home. He affirmed his commitment to representing the interests of the marginalized communities, particularly Dalits, within the political arena.
Anand wasted no time in declaring his intention to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, announcing his plans to file his nomination for the New Delhi parliamentary seat on the following day. With the deadline for nominations looming, his swift action underscores the urgency and determination with which he approaches his political aspirations.
The New Delhi constituency, already contested by prominent candidates from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the AAP, will now see Anand entering the fray as the BSP's contender. His entry adds a new dimension to an already competitive electoral landscape, promising an engaging and closely watched electoral battle.
Anand's decision to part ways with the AAP, where he held significant ministerial positions, underscores his discontent with the party's leadership and its treatment of Dalit representatives. His grievances highlight broader issues of representation and inclusivity within political parties, echoing concerns about the equitable distribution of power and influence across diverse social groups.