Uttar Pradesh Minister Defends Government’s Decision

In Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar defended the BJP-led state government after Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav accused them of not allowing socialists to honor Jai Prakash Narayan on his birth anniversary. Rajbhar cited security concerns and the unclean state of the Jai Prakash Narayan International Centre (JPNIC) as reasons for the denial of permission.

Security Concerns and Construction Hazards

The Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) refused permission for the visit, stating that JPNIC is an active construction site with potential hazards. Akhilesh Yadav, however, garlanded a statue of Jai Prakash Narayan outside the JPNIC and accused the government of attempting to sell the site.

Political Tensions and Accusations

Minister Rajbhar highlighted the BJP’s efforts in honoring great personalities by installing statues of figures like Vallabhbhai Patel and BR Ambedkar. He challenged Akhilesh Yadav to show similar efforts by the Samajwadi Party during their tenure.

Akhilesh Yadav criticized the BJP for their alleged disrespect towards historical figures and questioned their understanding of Jai Prakash Narayan’s contributions. He argued that security should have been provided to facilitate the tribute.

Political Reactions

BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari accused Akhilesh Yadav of politicizing the issue and forgetting the ideals of Jai Prakash Narayan. He suggested that Yadav could have paid tribute in his office if his intentions were genuine.