Akhilesh Yadav Lambasts UP Government Over Controversial AI Investment Deal
In a scathing critique of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) administration in Uttar Pradesh, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav has raised serious concerns about a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) related to Artificial Intelligence projects. The controversy centers around media reports indicating the state government has committed to AI initiatives worth a staggering Rs 25,000 crore with a company that reportedly has an annual turnover of merely Rs 50 lakh.
"Artificial Image" Under Fire: Political Leader Questions Government Decision-Making
Speaking on Wednesday, Yadav asserted that such ill-informed decisions are severely damaging what he termed as the chief minister's "Artificial Image" that has been carefully constructed through extensive publicity campaigns. The former chief minister suggested that the government's approach reveals a pattern of hollow investment claims that ultimately harm the state's economic credibility and reputation among serious investors.
Social Media Criticism and Company Background Questions
Through multiple posts on the social media platform X, apparently directed at Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Yadav wrote with pointed sarcasm: "Before signing the MoU, you should have at least consulted AI to know more about 'Puch'." This reference to 'Puch' identifies the specific company involved in the government agreements.
Later, while addressing party workers, Yadav revealed additional concerning details about the arrangement. He claimed the company in question was established in 2025 and subsequently signed the MoUs with the state government in 2026, raising questions about the due diligence process and the firm's operational history before securing such substantial commitments.
Broader Allegations of Corruption and Investment Obstacles
The Samajwadi Party leader expanded his criticism to include broader allegations of systemic issues affecting Uttar Pradesh's investment climate. He referenced the term "panch percentiye" (five percenters), which appears to allude to a previous incident involving an IAS officer who was suspended for allegedly demanding a 5% commission from investors—a charge that was later found to be unsubstantiated, leading to the bureaucrat's reinstatement.
Yadav suggested this episode demonstrates that unless 5% commission reaches BJP coffers, genuine progress remains elusive. He warned that such media exposures disillusion honest investors and create barriers to legitimate economic development in the state.
Additional Criticisms: LPG Crisis and Agricultural Concerns
Beyond the AI controversy, Yadav launched additional criticisms against both state and central governments. He accused the national administration of effectively handing over the entire Indian market to foreign entities, a move he claims will devastate domestic industries and agricultural communities.
The political leader highlighted the ongoing LPG cylinder crisis that has forced ordinary citizens to endure long queues, stating: "The red LPG cylinder and the red caps (referring to SP's party symbolism) have left the BJP jittery." He further alleged that the government has quietly reduced fertilizer quantities in bags and may attempt similar reductions with LPG cylinders, potentially decreasing content from 14 kg to 10 kg without public awareness.
Yadav concluded by urging citizens to remain vigilant against what he described as "self-centred" individuals who exploit public ignorance for personal or political gain, emphasizing that transparent governance and substantive investments are essential for Uttar Pradesh's future prosperity.
