The Samajwadi Party (SP) is preparing region-specific manifestos to counter the ruling BJP’s centralised narrative in Uttar Pradesh ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. These manifestos will focus on the developmental needs of each area, addressing local demands, livelihood issues, opportunities, and social concerns.
While a State-level manifesto will be released, the party plans to also issue separate manifestos for specific regions. Party strategists argue that Uttar Pradesh has diverse geographical and economic challenges, and each region requires tailored policies to meet its development potential.
Focus on Local Needs
The SP is studying the strengths and weaknesses of various regions to create policies, promises, and plans suited to local conditions. Proposed regional manifestos include areas like Agra, Bundelkhand, Devi Patan division, and districts in Purvanchal (Eastern Uttar Pradesh).
“It is true that Akhilesh Yadav, the national president of the Samajwadi Party, wants local manifestos prepared for 2027. U.P. is a large state with different problems and development potential in each region. These must be addressed to meet people’s expectations,” said Alok Ranjan, a retired IAS officer and former U.P. Chief Secretary, who is advising the SP president on policy matters.
Number of Manifestos and Regional Focus
When asked about the number of local manifestos, Ranjan said it has not been finalised yet. However, each district’s needs will be reflected in the documents. He mentioned that proposed clusters include Agra, Mathura, Vrindavan, Noida, Greater Noida, Bundelkhand, underdeveloped districts of Devi Patan division, and districts of Purvanchal.
Party insiders believe that a focus on local issues can counter the BJP’s macro-nationalism and temple-based narrative. It will allow the SP to maintain its traditional voter base and highlight an agenda rooted in local needs, livelihoods, social justice, and development.
Tailored Policies for Different Regions
Ram Pratap Singh, national spokesperson of the SP, said, “We are looking at a detailed approach. While a State-level manifesto will be released, localised region-centric manifestos will also be shared. Each region’s potential will guide our policies and plans. For instance, Eastern U.P. districts like Ballia have agricultural potential, whereas Gautam Buddha Nagar is more industry-focused due to its closeness to Delhi.”
Regional Disparity in Investments
Regional differences in development are evident in Uttar Pradesh. At the 2023 Global Investors Summit, only five out of 75 districts received over 50% of investment proposals. Gautam Buddha Nagar received 27.16% of total proposals, while Ballia received just 0.06%, showing a clear disparity across regions.
