Uttar Pradesh Government Desires a 'Silent' Opposition: SP's Lal Bihari Yadav After Upper House Ejection

Synopsis

Lal Bihari Yadav, after being expelled from the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council, claims the state government desires a 'silent' opposition. He criticized the government for its handling of the Maha Kumbh stampede. The SP protests the casualties and demands accountability.

Key Takeaways

Lal Bihari Yadav claims the government seeks to silence dissent.
SP protests the stampede's death toll at Maha Kumbh.
Accusations of mismanagement against the UP government.
Call for transparency regarding casualties and aid.
Chief Minister urges constructive opposition engagement.

Lucknow, Feb 19 (NationPress) Following his removal from the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council on Wednesday, Leader of Opposition Lal Bihari Yadav stated that the state government aims for an opposition that is "deaf and mute".

In an interview with IANS, the Samajwadi Party leader remarked: "We were democratically protesting against the government, demanding the 'actual' count of those who died and were injured during the stampede at Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj on Mauni Amavasya."

He further explained, "In our protest, we entered the well of the House and laid down there, after which I was forcibly removed."

"The government seeks to silence the opposition; however, as long as I am present, I will continue to carry out the responsibilities assigned by SP chief Akhilesh Yadav and advocate for the issues faced by the public," he asserted.

At least 30 individuals lost their lives and around 60 others were injured when a large crowd surged towards the Sangam on Mauni Amavasya, breaking through barricades, which led to the tragic stampede.

On Tuesday, prior to the Budget session, SP MLAs had protested against the fatalities resulting from the Maha Kumbh stampede.

Samajwadi Party leader Shivpal Yadav accused the Uttar Pradesh government of misappropriating public funds.

He criticized the government for its failure to provide adequate arrangements for devotees, which contributed to the unfortunate incident.

He further emphasized that the government has yet to disclose the number of casualties, their identities, or any financial compensation given to the victims' families.

SP MLA Sangram Yadav condemned the Uttar Pradesh government for transforming the Kumbh Mela into a VIP 'mela'.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has urged the opposition to engage constructively in the legislative process rather than express their frustrations over recent electoral losses.