Mulayam Singh Yadav (November 22, 1939 – October 10, 2022) was an influential Indian politician and the founder of the Samajwadi Party (SP). A prominent figure in Uttar Pradesh politics, Yadav served as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh three times (1989–1991, 1993–1995, and 2003–2007) and held the position of India’s Defence Minister from 1996 to 1998. Yadav was known for championing socialist principles, advocating for social justice, and uplifting marginalized communities through affirmative action and welfare programs.

Yadav's political journey began in the 1960s as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Uttar Pradesh, rising through the ranks to become a significant regional leader. As Chief Minister, he focused on education, healthcare, land reforms, and employment opportunities for backward classes and farmers. He played a key role in shaping regional politics in North India and had a strong influence on coalition politics at the national level.

In September 2022, Yadav was hospitalized after his health deteriorated and was placed on a ventilator. He remained under medical care for a month before passing away on October 10, 2022, at the age of 82, in a hospital in Gurgaon.

In October 2020, BOOM fact-checked a viral hoax claiming that Mulayam Singh Yadav had passed away.

BOOM found out that the rumor was false, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the Samajwadi Party, who clarified that it was actually a namesake who had died, not the former Chief Minister.