The Samajwadi Party (SP) is attempting to create a new political narrative using the legacy of Kanshi Ram, the founder of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), who awakened political consciousness among Dalit and extremely backward communities in Uttar Pradesh. Akhilesh Yadav, the head of the SP, is trying to incorporate Dalit votes while maintaining his Yadav-Muslim vote bank, introducing what he calls the PDA formula for the upcoming elections. In a significant move, the SP plans to widely celebrate the 91st anniversary of Kanshi Ram on March 15, aiming to strengthen their position for the 2027 elections.

Mayawati, who has historically been linked with Kanshi Ram and has relied on him as one of her greatest political strengths, is unhappy with the SP's actions and has labeled their initiative as mere political theatrics. While the SP is focusing on consolidating the backward, Dalit, and minority votes, Mayawati views these efforts as an attempt to undermine her party's legacy and influence in Uttar Pradesh's political landscape. The move by the SP is seen as a power play to attract Dalit voters—an area that the BSP has traditionally dominated.

As the 2024 elections approach, the tactics of both parties signify a broader struggle for power among social justice constituencies in Uttar Pradesh. This political tussle over Kanshi Ram's legacy illustrates the ongoing rivalry between the SP and BSP and raises questions about the future of Dalit politics in the state. The success or failure of these strategies could reshape alliances and voter dynamics significantly within Uttar Pradesh's intricate political framework.