Rival camps in UP gear up for Rajya Sabha and Legislative Council elections

As the terms of 10 Rajya Sabha MPs from UP conclude on April 2 and 13 legislative council seats expire on May 5, both the ruling BJP and the main opposition Samajwadi Party are engaged in intense lobbying for the upcoming vacancies. The elections, expected to take place just ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, prompt both parties to vie for not only seats reflecting their current assembly strength but also strive for "additional seats," potentially leading to cross-voting scenarios.

The elections to the Rajya Sabha, based on proportional representation and single transferable vote, are anticipated to be held around March, offering insights into the political strategies of both the BJP and the opposition.

The BJP, with 254 lawmakers and allies, holds a strong position in the 403-member UP assembly, making it likely to secure the majority of Rajya Sabha and legislative council seats. The SP, with 109 lawmakers and the support of the RLD, emerges as the primary contender to win the remaining seats, especially in the legislative council.

 The upcoming elections, expected to precede the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, carry political significance as they offer insights into the strategies of major political players. The potential for "additional seats" and the dynamics of legislative council polls add complexity to the political landscape. With the SP and RLD potentially securing up to four MLCs in May, the SP could achieve the status of the leader of the opposition in the upper house, given the requirement of at least 10 MLCs for the designation.