Even the new generation with its roots in the Yadav clan – Tej Pratap Yadav (Mainpuri MP), Budayun MP Dharmendra Yadav, Kannauj MP Dimple Yadav and many second-rung politicians – have accepted Akhilesh Yadav as their leader.
Family elders too feel that Mulayam Singh should reconcile to the rise of the son.
The other two brothers of Mulayam Singh – Abhay Ram Yadav and Rajpal Yadav – have come to Lucknow, in a rare appearance, to douse the family fire and thrash a respectable way out for the father and son.
Mulayam Singh is left with only a handful of diehard loyalists like brother Shivpal Yadav, Rajya Sabha MP Amar Singh and actor-turned-politician Jaya Prada.
All eyes are on the Election Commission to see to who it will allot the ‘cycle’ symbol — the Mulayam or Akhilesh faction.
With staggered Uttar Pradesh assembly polls set to start on February 11, the decision will have a major bearing on the electoral battle.
From Agencies, Feature image courtesy newindianexpress
