Uttar Pradesh leaders clash over PDA meaning as Akhilesh Yadav redefines term

SOPA chief Akhilesh Yadav addressed a Janeshwar Mishra Jayanti gathering in Lucknow, attacking the BJP and redefining the party’s PDA formula – originally “Pichhda, Dalit, Alpasankhyak” – to include “Pandit” (PD). He framed the change as a response to perceived Brahmin marginalisation.

Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya replied on X, insisting that PDA actually stands for “Family Development Authority” centred on Saifai and accusing the Samajwadi Party of shielding criminals, mafias and corrupt elements. Maurya warned that voters will reject such rhetoric ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh assembly election.