📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Subhashish Panigrahi
Politics
Congress Gains Former AIMIM MLA Asim Waqar Ahead of Uttar Pradesh Elections
✍️ The Times of India
🗓 03 Sep 2026, 08:36 AM
👁 4
Senior AIMIM legislator Asim Waqar has resigned from the party and announced his entry into the Indian National Congress as the Uttar Pradesh polls approach.
Asim Waqar, a sitting member of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly representing the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), announced his resignation from the party and his decision to join the Indian National Congress. The move was made public in the days leading up to the state's assembly elections, a period marked by intense party realignments.
Political analysts note that Waqar's shift could alter the dynamics of the contest, especially in constituencies with significant minority voters. While the Congress hopes to capitalize on his local influence, some observers argue that the defection may indirectly benefit the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party by fragmenting opposition votes.
The Congress party welcomed Waqar, stating that his experience and grassroots connections will strengthen its outreach in Uttar Pradesh. Waqar, for his part, said he left AIMIM due to strategic differences and believes the Congress platform aligns better with his vision for the state's development.
The Uttar Pradesh elections, scheduled for early 2027, are expected to be a decisive battle for national parties. Waqar's entry adds another variable to an already complex electoral landscape, where coalition-building and candidate selection will be crucial.
Both parties are now gearing up for the final phase of campaigning, with the Congress aiming to convert Waqar's support base into tangible votes, while the BJP continues its broader outreach across the state.
Political analysts note that Waqar's shift could alter the dynamics of the contest, especially in constituencies with significant minority voters. While the Congress hopes to capitalize on his local influence, some observers argue that the defection may indirectly benefit the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party by fragmenting opposition votes.
The Congress party welcomed Waqar, stating that his experience and grassroots connections will strengthen its outreach in Uttar Pradesh. Waqar, for his part, said he left AIMIM due to strategic differences and believes the Congress platform aligns better with his vision for the state's development.
The Uttar Pradesh elections, scheduled for early 2027, are expected to be a decisive battle for national parties. Waqar's entry adds another variable to an already complex electoral landscape, where coalition-building and candidate selection will be crucial.
Both parties are now gearing up for the final phase of campaigning, with the Congress aiming to convert Waqar's support base into tangible votes, while the BJP continues its broader outreach across the state.