Jhansi: Samajwadi Party functionaries launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party-led governments at the Centre and in the state during a joint press conference held in Banda on Monday, alleging rampant illegal mining, corruption, reservation irregularities, and failure of key public welfare schemes.
Allegations of Illegal Mining
Addressing the media, former Rajya Sabha MP and minister Vishambhar Prasad Nishad, along with sitting Banda-Chitrakoot MP Krishna Devi Patel, alleged that rising inflation, unemployment, and crimes against women have worsened under BJP rule. They claimed that large-scale illegal sand mining is being carried out in the Ken, Bagen, and Yamuna rivers with political patronage, causing severe environmental damage and endangering public safety.
The leaders alleged that mining mafias, in collusion with local BJP leaders, have been extracting sand beyond permitted limits, altering river courses, and damaging agricultural land and public roads. They further claimed that several drowning incidents in abandoned mining pits have resulted in fatalities in recent years.
Reservation Scam Allegations
Vishambhar Prasad Nishad accused the state government of depriving OBC, SC, and ST candidates of their rightful share in public recruitment through what he termed a “PDA reservation scam.” He cited alleged irregularities in multiple recruitment drives, including teacher, revenue, and agricultural assistant appointments, and demanded a thorough investigation.
Failure of Welfare Schemes
The opposition leaders also criticized severe shortfalls in the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission, alleging that roads across urban and rural areas were dug up for pipeline work but not restored properly. They claimed that despite official records showing completion of projects, many areas are yet to receive a regular water supply.
The leaders further questioned the functioning of Rani Laxmi Bai Medical College in Banda, alleging shortages of specialist doctors and inadequate healthcare facilities. They warned that unchecked mining and deforestation could cause irreversible environmental damage and appealed to residents to protect the region’s natural resources while holding the government accountable.
