Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad not to contest from Varanasi

“The main aim is to defeat BJP. But if my decision to contest in Varanasi will strengthen the BJP or Modi, I have decided not to contest,” said Azad adding that his outfit will support the Mahagathbandhan candidates in UP.

The Bhim Army founder took a surprise U- turn days after he declared support to Congress candidate, Imran Masood in Saharanpur constituency in Western Uttar Pradesh, where polls were conducted on April 11.

Responding to it, Mayawati came out with sharp criticism and alleged that he is working as BJP agent and trying to divide Dalit votes.

However, while addressing a press conference in national capital, organised by Dalit Adivasi Shakti Adhikar Manch (DASAM) on the malfunctions of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), Azad said, “our own people are calling us agents of the BJP, but I still want her (Mayawati) to become Prime Minister."

Azad also said that if Mayawati decided to field her close associate Satish Chandra Mishra, a Brahmin, in Varanasi, he will support him and added that Mishra may be able to get some upper caste votes.

In March, Azad had declared that he will contest against Modi in Varanasi and urged SP and BSP to support him.

image credit: Chandrashekhar Azad Official twitter Account