Akansha singh, Bhopal: Congress and Samajwadi Party show interest as former IAS officer prepares for a new political journey. Former IAS officer Divya Mittal has emerged as a fresh point of interest in Uttar Pradesh politics after announcing her decision to enter politics. Her move has drawn attention from both the Congress and the Samajwadi Party (SP), even though Mittal has currently ruled out joining any political party.
From IAS Office to Political Ground
Mittal, a 2013-batch Uttar Pradesh cadre IAS officer, spent nearly 13 years in the civil services. She served in districts including Mirzapur, Sant Kabir Nagar and Deoria.
Her work in Mirzapur, particularly efforts related to bringing piped drinking water to a remote village, had earlier brought her public recognition. She announced her resignation from the IAS in August, with her voluntary retirement taking effect in September.
One Announcement, Many Political Questions
On September 29, Mittal announced her political plans through a video message. She said Uttar Pradesh was her “karmabhoomi” and that she wanted to become a voice for people whose problems often fail to reach the administration.
Rather than joining an established party, she said she wanted to build a people-centric political platform. She also spoke about issues such as education, unemployment, infrastructure and examination paper leaks.
Congress Opens the Door, SP Sends a Signal
Mittal’s political announcement soon triggered reactions from opposition parties. Congress leaders had earlier indicated that the party could consider her if she wanted to contest an election.
SP chief Akhilesh Yadav also reacted to her entry. While speaking about her political future, he referred to the green-and-red scarf, the colours associated with the Samajwadi Party. His remark was widely interpreted as an invitation towards the SP.
Why Is Her Entry Drawing Attention?
The development comes ahead of the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly election, when opposition parties are working on their political strategies and alliance equations. India Today reported that both Congress and SP are showing interest in Mittal, although there is no confirmed announcement that she has joined either party.
The Big Question: Which Way Will She Go?
For now, Mittal’s position remains clear: she wants to begin her political journey from Uttar Pradesh without immediately taking a party flag.
Whether she eventually joins Congress, SP or chooses an independent route remains open. Her next move could therefore become an important talking point in the state’s political landscape.