As political tensions escalate in Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s recent assembly address showcased his ability to counter the criticisms raised by opposition leader Akhilesh Yadav.
During the monsoon session, Yadav targeted the state’s leadership on issues ranging from Anna Maveshiyon to severe flooding. But Adityanath’s detailed responses left the opposition visibly startled. Amidst the exchange, the Chief Minister highlighted Yadav’s past challenges and questioned his approach in the political arena.
Interestingly, CM Yogi initiated a three-day discussion focused on national agricultural challenges, where 33 members deliberated on subjects like flooding and drought. In a subtle dig at Yadav, he expressed disappointment over the opposition’s focus, stating that he expected more than just the waterlogging concern in Gorakhpur. Citing the electoral results from 2014 to 2022, Yogi suggested that voters didn’t endorse such behaviour.
The Chief Minister, responding to Yadav’s comments regarding farmers and Anna Maveshiyon, clarified that animal husbandry is an intrinsic component of agriculture. Highlighting his government’s contributions, Yogi noted their efforts to categorise wildlife-human confrontations as disasters – a move that no other state has taken. The state also declared deaths from snakebites and animal attacks as disaster-related incidents. Emphasising the balance between human and wildlife interests, he pointed out the steps taken to protect both farmers and wildlife in areas like Bijnor.
Drawing attention to the much-publicised uncle-nephew alliance, CM Yogi commented on the internal strife from 2012 to 2017, which, he believes, hampered the state’s progress. Comparing his administration’s performance, he proudly recounted the completion of 20 projects under his leadership, emphasising the increased irrigation capacity that benefitted millions of farmers.