Lucknow: Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday participated in a Buddha Purnima programme held at the party's state headquarters. The event saw a large gathering of Buddhist monks from across Uttar Pradesh and other states.
Addressing the gathering, Yadav emphasized the enduring relevance of Lord Buddha's teachings in contemporary times. He highlighted the message of 'self-enlightenment' and peaceful coexistence, stating that Buddha's philosophy has guided societies globally and remains crucial in addressing life's challenges.
In his speech, Yadav expressed concern over what he termed 'threats to the Constitution and democracy.' He called upon Buddhist monks to support efforts aimed at safeguarding constitutional values, which he said were inspired by B.R. Ambedkar. 'The Constitution is under threat, and we must all work together to protect it,' he said.
Yadav also announced that if the Samajwadi Party wins the upcoming elections, it would prioritize the development of key Buddhist sites such as Kushinagar, Sarnath, and Lumbini. This initiative, he said, would boost global connectivity and tourism, benefiting the region economically and culturally.
The event featured traditional Buddhist chants, felicitation of monks, and community feasting. Several party functionaries and dignitaries were present, underscoring the party's outreach to the Buddhist community.
Yadav's participation in the Buddha Purnima programme is seen as an effort to strengthen ties with the Buddhist community, which forms a significant voter base in some parts of Uttar Pradesh. His remarks on the Constitution and democracy also reflect the Samajwadi Party's political stance ahead of the elections.
