Akhilesh Yadav Calls for Urgent Lok Sabha Debate on West Asia Conflict
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Monday demanded an immediate discussion in the Lok Sabha regarding the ongoing conflict in West Asia, while sharply questioning the Indian government's foreign policy stance. He alleged that India is acting under undue pressure from the United States, which contradicts its proclaimed vision of self-reliance.
Concern for Stranded Indians and Foreign Policy Critique
Speaking to reporters at the Parliament complex, Akhilesh Yadav expressed deep concern over the large number of Indian citizens stranded in the conflict-ridden region. He insisted that the government must prioritize the safe evacuation of all Indians who wish to return home. "The Centre must clarify its stand on the war. How are they looking at the conflict there?" he questioned, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
He further criticized what he described as "US dictating terms to India," pointing out a perceived inconsistency in the government's approach. "On one hand, India talks of being 'Atmanirbhar' (self-reliance), but on the other, we are following the orders of the US. What will happen to the 'Atmanirbhar' motto when another country is dictating how India buys oil from other countries?" Akhilesh argued that these critical issues warrant thorough parliamentary scrutiny and debate.
Allegations of Electoral Irregularities and ECI Functioning
Shifting focus to domestic matters, Akhilesh Yadav addressed the Opposition's plans to move for the impeachment of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. He backed this move by citing allegations of irregularities in the functioning of the Chief Election Officer (CEO) in Uttar Pradesh.
He referenced the "Nand Lal and Dashrath episode" during the summary revision of electoral rolls, where several Form 7 applications were allegedly submitted with forged signatures. Akhilesh had previously presented Nandlal before the media at the SP headquarters, demonstrating how illiterate individuals' signatures were misused. "The ECI did not lodge an FIR for the fraud," he maintained, criticizing the Election Commission's inaction.
He provided a specific instance where Form 7 was submitted with the signatures of an SP district president, seeking to delete names of party supporters from the voter list. "Election Commission's responsibility is to ensure that every genuine voter's name is on the list. Action must follow against those working against EC's professional interests," he asserted, calling for accountability.
Celebrating Conservation Success at Etawah Lion Safari
In a separate statement, Akhilesh Yadav celebrated the birth of four cubs to lioness Neerja at the Etawah Lion Safari Park, attributing this success to the vision implemented during the SP government's tenure. "This is the third time that the lioness has given birth. Earlier, it had given birth to two and three cubs respectively. Now, a total of 11 cubs will grow into adult lions and add to the dwindling count of the big cat in Asia," he said.
He extended congratulations to the park's staff and officials for their dedicated efforts in wildlife conservation, emphasizing the importance of such initiatives in preserving endangered species.
