Politics – Akhilesh Yadav Criticises BJP Over Inflation, Taxes and Governance Issues
Politics – Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday strongly criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party governments at both the Centre and in Uttar Pradesh, accusing them of putting financial pressure on ordinary citizens through rising prices and increasing taxes.
Speaking to reporters at a press briefing, Yadav said that inflation continues to trouble households across the country and alleged that the situation would only improve when the current leadership steps down. According to him, everyday expenses are climbing steadily while the government has failed to provide relief to the public.
Concerns Raised Over Rising Prices
Yadav pointed to the increasing cost of essential commodities as a major issue affecting people’s daily lives. He argued that the government has been repeatedly raising taxes instead of focusing on measures to stabilise prices.
Referring specifically to cooking gas, he said that once LPG cylinder prices go up, they rarely return to earlier levels. The rising cost of household fuel, he noted, has placed an added burden on families already coping with higher living expenses.
He also criticised the taxation structure on vehicles, claiming that taxes in some cases reach nearly 50 percent. Such policies, he said, make it difficult for middle-class families to manage their finances and discourage affordability.
Leaders Join Samajwadi Party
During the event, several individuals from different backgrounds formally joined the Samajwadi Party. Among them was former Deputy Inspector General of Police Ram Sharad Ram.
Welcoming the new members, Yadav said the growing number of people associating with the party reflects increasing confidence among the public. He described the development as a sign that more individuals are looking for alternative political leadership in the state.
Questions on Law and Order Situation
Yadav also raised concerns about law and order in Uttar Pradesh. Referring to a recent development in Kanpur, he alleged that the disclosure of certain police call records had revealed possible connections between officials and individuals involved in illegal activities.
He questioned why authorities were able to examine the call records of police personnel but had not carried out similar investigations into those suspected of smuggling. According to him, transparency and accountability should apply equally to everyone involved.
Allegations of Political Propaganda
The Samajwadi Party chief further accused the ruling party of using a song as part of political messaging aimed at portraying his party in a negative light.
He said the Samajwadi Party intends to file a formal complaint in the matter. The filing of an FIR, he added, would also serve as a test of whether authorities are prepared to take action in cases involving political messaging that allegedly spreads misinformation.
Review of Development Projects During SP Government
While addressing the media, Yadav also highlighted initiatives undertaken during his tenure as chief minister of Uttar Pradesh. He stated that several infrastructure and welfare projects were launched under the Samajwadi Party government.
These included the construction of major expressways, the distribution of laptops to students, the development of the Gomti Riverfront, and the introduction of the Dial-100 emergency response service. He also mentioned the expansion of ambulance services and the establishment of the Cancer Institute as key projects from that period.
Yadav additionally claimed that the state witnessed the establishment of several thermal power plants during the Samajwadi Party administration.
Concerns About Electoral Process
Turning to the electoral system, Yadav raised questions about the functioning of the Election Commission. He alleged that in certain areas attempts were being made to influence voters.
According to him, Samajwadi Party workers intervened in several assembly constituencies where they suspected that voter names could have been removed from electoral rolls. He said the party remains vigilant to ensure that the voting process remains fair.
Comments on Foreign Policy and Energy
Yadav also touched on international relations while discussing energy imports. He described Russia as a long-standing partner of India and said the country should make practical economic decisions when purchasing resources.
If oil is available at lower prices from Russia, he argued, India should consider buying it to support economic stability and reduce costs.
Future Political Strategy
Looking ahead, Yadav reiterated that a political alliance of backward classes, Dalits and minority communities — referred to by him as the PDA coalition — would play a decisive role in the future political landscape.
He expressed confidence that such a coalition could eventually form the government and represent a broader social alliance in the state.