Mayawati not to contest election

    One of India’s most well-known politicians has announced she will not stand in the upcoming general election.

    Mayawati shocked the country by saying she would instead "concentrate on an alliance" formed to counter the influence of the ruling BJP.

    Ms Mayawati, a member of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), is an icon for India's low-caste Dalits and a four-time chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, which sends the greatest number of MPs to parliament.

    The elections will be held in phases from 11 April, with results on 23 May.

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