Akhilesh Yadav Criticizes UP Government Over Illegal Cough Syrup Trade
Akhilesh Yadav, the leader of the Samajwadi Party, has sharply criticized the Uttar Pradesh government over the illegal trade of codeine-based cough syrup. He accused the administration of serious irregularities and pledged to raise the issue in the assembly, emphasizing its significance for public welfare. Following a police crackdown that seized thousands of bottles, Yadav alleged collusion within the investigation and expressed concern for journalists involved in reporting the issue. He also targeted the government's use of bulldozers in demolition campaigns, questioning their effectiveness and accountability. This article delves into Yadav's statements and the broader implications for governance in Uttar Pradesh.
| Dec 18, 2025, 16:41 IST
Akhilesh Yadav's Strong Critique of UP Government
The National President of the Samajwadi Party, Akhilesh Yadav, launched a fierce critique against the Uttar Pradesh government on Thursday regarding the illegal trade of codeine-based cough syrup. During a press conference at the party's office in Lucknow, he accused the government of significant irregularities, selective enforcement, and administrative failures. Yadav emphasized that this issue would be raised in the assembly, labeling it a matter of serious public interest.
This incident follows a major crackdown by the Varanasi police on December 10, which resulted in the seizure of approximately 30,000 bottles of the banned cough syrup from a warehouse in the city, valued at around 6 million rupees. Yadav alleged collusion within the system regarding the investigation into the cough syrup case, stating that the STF (Special Task Force) constables assigned to the investigation are themselves involved. He questioned how the government could deliver justice under such circumstances, suggesting that it appears to be complicit with those involved in the cough syrup trade.
Yadav further stated that the issue of codeine would be brought up in the assembly, highlighting its growing significance. What began as a matter involving a few crores has escalated considerably, with important connections to the district adjacent to the Prime Minister's constituency. Expressing concern for journalists, he remarked, “Our journalist colleagues are also worried, although they are very brave. There are 700 companies, and those evaluating them are unable to keep up. Journalists who have gone viral are also being sought; the government should assist them.”
Targeting the state government's use of bulldozers, the SP leader remarked, "I have noticed that whenever an incident occurs, bulldozers are deployed, but this time the Chief Minister's toy bulldozer driver has fled, the keys are lost, and there is no fuel to operate it. Where is that bulldozer?" Referring to demolition campaigns, Yadav mentioned, "A person's house was demolished in Ambedkar Nagar. The Chief Justice of India stated that compensation should be provided for damages caused by actions against others, yet here we are dealing with a matter worth thousands of crores, and the government remains silent." He further claimed, "Bulldozers have been used in 22 to 24 locations in Uttar Pradesh, with 22 individuals linked to the Prayagraj Development Authority (PDA)."