Why Did Ajai Rai Criticize the UP Government After Triple Suicide in Lucknow?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Triple suicide incident underscores economic despair.
- Ajai Rai criticizes BJP-led government for inaction.
- Rising trend of similar tragedies noted since BJP took power.
- Small business struggles contribute to overall economic stagnation.
- Calls for greater accountability and support for the needy.
Varanasi, June 30 (NationPress) Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajai Rai has vehemently condemned the BJP-led state government after the tragic reported suicide of a cloth merchant, his wife, and their teenage daughter in Lucknow. The family allegedly ingested poison, underscoring what Rai termed as escalating economic despair under the current administration.
In a statement to IANS, Ajai Rai expressed profound sorrow over this heartbreaking event and noted a disturbing trend of similar incidents since the BJP assumed power in the state.
"This is an extremely tragic and unacceptable incident. Should I visit Lucknow, I would pay my respects to the family," Rai remarked.
"Under this government, businesses are struggling. People are feeling utterly powerless, and such despair is driving the impoverished to extreme measures, including taking their own lives and those of their loved ones."
He emphasized that these heartbreaking occurrences are becoming increasingly prevalent.
"When individuals can only see darkness ahead, with no escape and no assistance, tragedies like this take place. Since the BJP government took charge, especially in Uttar Pradesh, there has been a notable increase in such distressing events," he added.
Rai attributed the dire conditions of small businesses and the stagnation of the economy to the growing despondency among the populace.
"Nothing is selling, trade is stagnant, and banks are pressuring individuals for repayments. Many cannot afford their rent. The government is solely focused on its agenda, neglecting public welfare. There’s a complete lack of accountability," he stated.
Rai also addressed AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi’s recent interest in joining the Mahagathbandhan alliance to contest the Bihar Assembly elections against the BJP-led NDA.
"The members of the INDIA Bloc will make a collective decision on who to include. Currently, the alliance is robust in Bihar and gaining traction every day," he observed.
Rai further responded to comments made by Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, who criticized Acharya Dhirendra Shastri, also known as Bageshwar Baba, regarding the high fees charged by some kathavachaks (religious storytellers).
"I wouldn’t categorize all kathavachaks similarly. Many are scholars who share stories without expecting payment or elaborate setups. Not everyone is like Dhirendra Shastri. While some individuals cast a negative light on the entire community, the majority perform their duties with sincerity and dedication. Donations from the public are given voluntarily, which is a separate issue," he clarified.
Rai also commented on the relationship between the Congress and the Samajwadi Party, dismissing any speculation of discord.
"They have their responsibilities, and we have ours. Relations between the Congress and the Samajwadi Party are perfectly fine," he concluded.