Akhilesh Yadav Launches Scathing Attack on BJP Government in Uttar Pradesh
Samajwadi Party national president and former chief minister Akhilesh Yadav delivered a sharp critique of the ruling BJP government during a media interaction in Kanpur on Friday. He accused the administration of creating new mafia elements and failing to provide essential infrastructure, which he claimed has prevented investment from flowing into the Kanpur region.
Allegations of Mafia Proliferation and Infrastructure Neglect
Yadav asserted that the BJP government has introduced "new and latest versions of mafia elements" in Uttar Pradesh, specifically citing examples such as the encounter mafia, cough syrup mafia, NEET mafia, and scam mafia. He emphasized that this environment, coupled with inadequate infrastructure, has deterred potential investors. "No investment is coming around Kanpur," he stated, blaming the government's inability to develop basic amenities.
He further highlighted the energy sector, claiming that the BJP government did not increase "even one unit of electricity production in nine years." According to Yadav, the electricity currently supplied in Uttar Pradesh originates from factories constructed during the previous Samajwadi Party administration. He lamented that the BJP government has turned Kanpur into "Badnaampur," referencing various local issues including the burning of a poor Brahmin mother-daughter's hut and corruption charges pressed by the Chief Minister's Office against the District Magistrate.
Environmental and Governance Concerns
Yadav pointed to environmental degradation, noting that "drains falling into the Ganga river" have tarnished Kanpur's reputation. He alleged widespread corruption within the police force, stating, "In this government, the situation is warm palm, soft police." He argued that the BJP has resorted to communal politics as its influence wanes, and criticized the high number of fake encounters, referencing a high court observation that delivering justice is the judiciary's role, not the police's.
Promises for Future Development Under Samajwadi Party
Outlining his vision for Kanpur's revival, Yadav promised that if the Samajwadi Party returns to power, it will foster investment by providing the right environment and proper rules. His plans include:
- Developing the region through a "Triangle Trade" initiative combining Etawah, Kannauj, and Kanpur.
- Creating a riverfront on the Ganga in Lucknow superior to the existing Gomti riverfront.
- Revitalizing Kanpur through better real estate utilization and restoring the bustling activity of Lal Imli.
- Supporting industry and textile sectors to boost economic growth.
Criticism of BJP's Policies and Alleged Insults to Sanatan Dharma
Yadav accused the BJP of fostering youth frustration by withholding jobs and employment opportunities, allegedly to avoid implementing reservations. He labeled the BJP as anti-PDA (Pichhda, Dalit, Alpsankhyak) and pledged to accelerate development and inclusivity through PDA if his party forms the government.
He also made serious allegations regarding the BJP's treatment of Sanatan Dharma, claiming that the government prevented Shankaracharya from bathing, insulted Sanatan traditions, and questioned the chief minister's demands for Shankaracharya's degree. "A yogi is one who has no desires, who doesn't get angry. They love the chair," he remarked, criticizing the demolition of structures like the dal mandi in Varanasi, the statue of Ahilya Bai Holkar, Manikarnika Ghat, and hundreds of temples.
Economic and Nationalist Concerns
Yadav alleged that the BJP is privatizing key assets and making lucrative deals, such as those for Rafale, while favoring foreign markets from China and America. He questioned the government's commitment to "Making in India" and the Swadeshi movement, asking, "How will Making India happen? What happened to the Swadeshi movement?"
In conclusion, Yadav portrayed the BJP government as detrimental to Uttar Pradesh's progress, promising that a Samajwadi Party-led administration would prioritize development, justice, and economic revitalization across the state.
