
On this reading, the SP is more vulnerable than it might appear. Its core support from Muslims is open to poaching in the coming Lok Sabha elections. It does not have a strong auxiliary support from any other section of society. And the large proportion of transient votes may not stay, now that the trappings of power and patronage are no more with Mulayam. The SP is no doubt a strong regional force and here to stay, but it faces as tough a test from its own voters as it does from Mayawati’s government.