Akhilesh Yadav Condemns BJP's Alleged Derogatory Remarks Against Shankaracharya
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday, denouncing what he described as derogatory remarks made against a Shankaracharya as "verbal violence" and a severe moral transgression. The SP leader's comments appeared to be directed at Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's statement in the state Assembly on Friday, where Adityanath reportedly said that not everyone can claim the title of Shankaracharya.
Character Cannot Be Hidden by Attire, Says Akhilesh
Addressing party members in Lucknow, Akhilesh Yadav emphasized that a person's true nature cannot be concealed by their outward appearance or clothing. "A person may wear any robe, but their speech exposes them," he stated. He asserted that using highly insulting language about a revered Shankaracharya is not merely verbal aggression but constitutes a sin. "Those who uttered such words will bear the consequences, and those who thumped desks in flattery share equal responsibility," he added, warning that BJP legislators would have to answer to the public for their actions.
Public Accountability and Assembly Proceedings
Akhilesh Yadav predicted that when BJP members leave the Assembly and face citizens, the people will conduct their own session on the streets to demand accountability. He further noted that the objectionable remarks against the Shankaracharya are now permanently recorded in the Assembly's official proceedings, making them a lasting part of public record. "If we call the statement condemnable, even the word 'condemnable' would feel inadequate," he remarked, reinforcing his party's strong disapproval.
Targeting UP Government Over Maha Kumbh 2025 Issues
In addition to the Shankaracharya controversy, Akhilesh Yadav criticized the Uttar Pradesh government for its alleged mishandling of deaths during the Maha Kumbh 2025. He accused the administration of failing to provide accurate casualty figures and mismanaging compensation distribution. According to Yadav, compensation was disbursed in cash, which he claimed created opportunities for corruption. He questioned where the funds intended for victims had gone if they did not reach the affected families.
"Those who suppress facts, remove cases against themselves, and fail in transparency have no moral authority to question anyone's religious position," he declared, linking the government's alleged lack of integrity to its criticism of religious figures.
Call for Correction and Moral Reflection
Akhilesh Yadav also challenged a statement referencing the "rule of law," asking whether the Assembly would be reconvened to correct terminology or if "public penance" would follow. He argued that arrogance distorts values and diminishes respect in society, implying that the BJP's actions exemplify this deterioration. The SP chief's comprehensive critique underscores ongoing political tensions in Uttar Pradesh, highlighting issues of governance, transparency, and religious sensitivity.
