What is the History of the Apna Dal (Sonelal)?

The Apna Dal (Sonelal) is a prominent political party in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Founded in 2014, the party has emerged as a significant player in the state’s political landscape, particularly representing the interests of marginalized communities.

Formation and Founding Leader

The Apna Dal (Sonelal) was founded on November 4, 2014, by Anupriya Patel, a dynamic and charismatic leader with a strong commitment to serving the marginalized communities of Uttar Pradesh. The party’s name carries the legacy of her father, Sone Lal Patel, a revered politician who had championed the cause of the Kurmi community – an influential OBC (Other Backward Class) group in the state.

The party’s formation was motivated by a desire to establish a political platform that could effectively address the issues faced by the backward classes and promote their socio-economic upliftment.

Aim and Ideology

The Apna Dal (Sonelal) is driven by the ideology of social justice, inclusivity, and empowerment. The party’s primary objective is to uplift the marginalized and underprivileged sections of society, especially the OBCs and Dalits. It advocates for their rights, welfare, and equal participation in the development process.

The party firmly believes in the principle of empowering local communities and ensuring that they have a say in the decision-making process at various levels of governance.

Electoral Journey and Impact

The Apna Dal (Sonelal) made its electoral debut in the 2014 Indian general elections. It forged an alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and won two Lok Sabha seats – Mirzapur and Pratapgarh – both of which were represented by Anupriya Patel and her mother, Krishna Patel, respectively. The party’s impressive performance marked its arrival as a significant political force in Uttar Pradesh.

In the 2017 Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly elections, the Apna Dal (Sonelal) once again joined hands with the BJP and contested several seats. The alliance secured a decisive victory, and Anupriya Patel was appointed as a Minister of State in the Union Cabinet, reflecting the party’s growing importance in the state and national politics.

Contributions and Focus

The Apna Dal (Sonelal) has been instrumental in advocating for the welfare of backward communities and marginalized groups. The party has focused on issues such as education, healthcare, and employment opportunities for these communities, aiming to bridge the socio-economic gaps and uplift their standard of living.

Anupriya Patel, as a leader, has actively championed the cause of women’s empowerment and gender equality. She has been vocal about women’s rights and their participation in politics and governance, thus advocating for a more inclusive and diverse representation in leadership roles.

Challenges and Way Forward

As with any political journey, the Apna Dal (Sonelal) has faced challenges, including internal struggles and competition from other parties. However, the party’s commitment to its core principles and the dedication of its leaders have helped overcome such obstacles.

Moving forward, the Apna Dal (Sonelal) aims to expand its reach and consolidate its position as a potent force in Uttar Pradesh politics. By continually addressing the concerns of the marginalized communities and advocating for their welfare, the party seeks to contribute significantly to the state’s development and progress.

The Apna Dal (Sonelal) has emerged as a prominent political entity in Uttar Pradesh, primarily representing the aspirations and interests of the backward classes and marginalized communities. Led by Anupriya Patel, the party’s dedication to social justice and inclusive governance has resonated with the people, propelling its growth and impact.

Through its continued efforts to uplift the underprivileged and empower women, the Apna Dal (Sonelal) is playing a crucial role in shaping Uttar Pradesh’s political landscape and contributing to a more equitable and prosperous society. As it continues to work towards its vision of a socially just and inclusive Uttar Pradesh, the party’s significance in the state’s political narrative is likely to grow further.