Shocks for BJP from Kashi to Lucknow, strong comeback of SP in MLC elections; Political signals to change before 2027

In the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council elections 2026, BJP has faced political setbacks from Kashi to Lucknow. Samajwadi Party retained its hold on both the teacher and graduate seats of Varanasi, while it showed its strength by winning with huge margins in Lucknow and Allahabad-Jhansi. BJP won 6 out of 11 seats, while SP won 5 seats. Before the 2027 assembly elections, these results have given rise to new discussions in the politics of UP.