Yogi Adityanath Criticizes Opposition Leaders During Legislative Session
In a recent legislative session, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath sharply criticized opposition leaders Rahul Gandhi and Akhilesh Yadav, suggesting they evade serious national discussions. His remarks came in response to allegations regarding the illegal trade of codeine-based cough syrup, which he claims involves individuals linked to the Samajwadi Party. Adityanath dismissed the opposition's claims as politically motivated and indicated ongoing investigations. In turn, Akhilesh Yadav responded by highlighting internal conflicts within the BJP, suggesting that Adityanath's comments reveal a power struggle between party factions. This exchange underscores the ongoing political tensions in Uttar Pradesh.
Dec 22, 2025, 18:14 IST
Political Attacks on Opposition Leaders
On Monday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a sharp political critique against opposition figures, indirectly targeting Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav. He remarked that these two individuals tend to vanish whenever significant national issues arise. This statement came during the second day of the Uttar Pradesh Assembly's winter session, in response to allegations made by the Samajwadi Party regarding the illegal trade of codeine-based cough syrup.
Dismissal of Opposition Claims
Adityanath dismissed the opposition's accusations, asserting that the controversy is driven more by political motives than by facts. He suggested that the case points to the involvement of individuals linked to the Samajwadi Party, claiming that financial transactions related to the matter were conducted through the account of an official from the party's Lohia Vahini. He further mentioned that a special task force is currently investigating the issue.
Indirect References to Opposition Leaders
Without naming anyone directly, Adityanath indicated that one of the 'two names' resides in Delhi while the other is based in Lucknow, and whenever serious discussions take place in the country, these individuals tend to disappear. He also mocked Akhilesh Yadav, whom he often refers to as 'Babua' in public speeches, suggesting that Yadav would soon embark on an overseas trip while his party continues to chant slogans in the assembly. According to him, "There are two names in the country, one in Delhi and the other in Lucknow. Whenever there is a discussion in the country, these people run away."
Akhilesh Yadav's Response
Akhilesh Yadav retaliated by describing Adityanath's comments as an open admission of discord within the BJP. Speaking in the assembly and later posting on the social media platform X, the former Chief Minister stated that this remark reflects the internal conflict between the party leadership in Delhi and the state unit in Lucknow. Yadav characterized the statement as a form of 'self-admission,' expressing surprise at how evident the alleged power struggle between Delhi and Lucknow has become.