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BJP doing politics of discrimination, says Akhilesh Yadav

Akhilesh Yadav Accuses BJP of Practicing Politics of Discrimination Amid Rising Tensions in Uttar Pradesh

In a scathing attack on the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav has accused the party of indulging in "politics of discrimination," alleging that it is deliberately sowing divisions along caste, community, and regional lines to maintain its grip on power. Speaking at a public rally in Lucknow, the former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh did not mince words, claiming that the BJP's policies and rhetoric are designed to marginalize certain sections of society while favoring others, thereby undermining the principles of equality and social justice enshrined in the Indian Constitution.

Yadav's remarks come at a time when Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state and a crucial battleground for national politics, is witnessing heightened debates over issues like reservation policies, caste-based census demands, and economic disparities. The SP leader argued that the BJP's approach is not just opportunistic but systematically discriminatory, pointing to recent government decisions that he believes disproportionately affect backward classes, Dalits, and minorities. "The BJP is doing politics of discrimination," Yadav stated emphatically, "dividing people on the basis of caste and religion to distract from real issues like unemployment, inflation, and farmers' distress."

Elaborating on his accusations, Yadav highlighted several specific instances where he believes the BJP has failed to uphold inclusive governance. One key point he raised was the handling of the reservation system. He criticized the BJP-led central and state governments for what he described as diluting affirmative action measures, particularly in light of ongoing controversies surrounding the implementation of quotas in education and employment. Yadav referenced the Supreme Court's recent observations on sub-classification within Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), suggesting that the BJP is using such judicial developments to create rifts among marginalized groups rather than ensuring equitable distribution of benefits.

Furthermore, the SP chief took aim at the BJP's alleged favoritism towards certain industrialists and corporate entities, claiming that economic policies under the current regime have widened the gap between the rich and the poor. "While a handful of businessmen close to the ruling party are amassing wealth, the common man, especially from backward and minority communities, is left to fend for himself," Yadav said. He linked this to broader national issues, such as the Agnipath scheme for military recruitment, which he argued discriminates against youth from rural and underprivileged backgrounds by offering short-term contracts without long-term security.

Yadav's speech also touched upon the BJP's handling of communal incidents in Uttar Pradesh. He accused the party of turning a blind eye to hate crimes and inflammatory speeches that target Muslims and other minorities, thereby fostering an environment of fear and division. "Discrimination is not just in policies; it's in the very language and actions of BJP leaders," he asserted, citing examples of bulldozer actions against properties in minority-dominated areas, which critics have labeled as "bulldozer justice" – a selective enforcement of law that disproportionately affects certain communities.

The context of Yadav's outburst is significant, as it aligns with the SP's strategy to consolidate its voter base ahead of upcoming by-elections and the 2027 assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh. The state has a complex social fabric, with castes like Yadavs, Jats, Dalits, and upper castes playing pivotal roles in electoral outcomes. Yadav, whose party has traditionally drawn support from Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and Muslims, is positioning the SP as the true champion of social justice, contrasting it with what he portrays as the BJP's divisive agenda.

This is not the first time Akhilesh Yadav has leveled such charges against the BJP. His political career has been marked by consistent criticism of the ruling party's governance model, particularly under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Yadav often harks back to his own tenure as CM from 2012 to 2017, during which he claims to have implemented pro-people policies like laptop distribution for students, infrastructure development, and welfare schemes aimed at uplifting the underprivileged. "We built highways, hospitals, and universities for all, without discrimination," he reminisced during the rally, drawing cheers from the crowd.

Political analysts view Yadav's statements as part of a broader opposition narrative to counter the BJP's Hindutva-driven politics. The BJP, on its part, has dismissed these allegations as baseless and politically motivated. Party spokespersons have countered by accusing the SP of dynastic politics and corruption during its rule, pointing to scandals like the Gomti Riverfront project and alleged land scams. "Akhilesh Yadav is resorting to false narratives because he has no real achievements to show," a BJP leader responded, emphasizing the current government's focus on law and order, development, and schemes like free ration distribution and housing for the poor.

However, Yadav's critique resonates with a section of the populace disillusioned with economic hardships. Unemployment rates in Uttar Pradesh remain high, with youth from various castes struggling to find jobs. The SP leader called for a caste census, arguing that it is essential to address discrimination and ensure fair representation. "Without knowing the exact numbers, how can we fight inequality? The BJP fears a caste census because it will expose their discriminatory politics," he said.

The rally where Yadav made these remarks was attended by thousands of supporters, including party workers, local leaders, and representatives from allied groups. It featured cultural performances and speeches from other SP figures, all echoing the theme of unity against division. Yadav urged the audience to reject the BJP's tactics and vote for inclusive development in future elections.

This episode underscores the intensifying political rivalry in Uttar Pradesh, where the BJP has dominated since 2017, securing a massive mandate in both assembly and Lok Sabha elections. Yet, the 2024 general elections saw the SP making significant gains, winning 37 seats in alliance with the Congress, compared to the BJP's reduced tally. Yadav's aggressive stance could be seen as an attempt to build on this momentum, mobilizing anti-BJP sentiments around issues of discrimination and social justice.

In a broader sense, Yadav's accusations reflect ongoing national debates about identity politics in India. The BJP's emphasis on cultural nationalism and majoritarian policies has been both praised for unifying the Hindu vote and criticized for alienating minorities. Opposition parties like the SP, Congress, and others have increasingly framed their campaigns around protecting constitutional values, secularism, and equitable growth.

As the political landscape evolves, Akhilesh Yadav's call to action against what he terms "politics of discrimination" may galvanize support among disaffected voters. Whether this translates into electoral success remains to be seen, but it certainly adds fuel to the fiery discourse in Uttar Pradesh politics. The BJP, meanwhile, is likely to respond with its own narrative of development and nationalism, setting the stage for a polarized contest in the coming years.

Yadav concluded his speech with a rallying cry: "It's time to end this era of discrimination and build a Uttar Pradesh where every citizen, regardless of caste or creed, has equal opportunities." His words, delivered with characteristic charisma, left the crowd energized, signaling that the battle lines for future elections are being drawn sharper than ever.

This development highlights the enduring relevance of caste and community dynamics in Indian politics, where accusations of discrimination can sway public opinion and influence voting patterns. As parties gear up for the next round of polls, the focus on inclusive policies versus alleged favoritism will likely dominate the narrative, shaping the future of governance in one of India's most influential states. (Word count: 1,048)

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