In the recent history of politics in Uttar Pradesh, Mayawati seeking votes for Mulayam Singh Yadav in Mainpuri on Friday is a special moment. Senior BSP leaders, including Ms Mayavati, slipped into a suite reserved for her in the guest house. Later that same evening, Mayawati took oath as Chief Minister, with outside support from the BJP and Janata Dal. Having become Chief Minister in 1989, Mulayam had built a national reputation for toughness by his promise to secure the Babri Masjid. As the saffron party failed to secure additional support, Mulayam became Chief Minister of the SP-BSP alliance government.

Source: Indian Express April 19, 2019 10:15 UTC