Uttar Pradesh Assembly Observes Solemn Tribute, Adjourns for the Day
The Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly convened on Tuesday for a somber and respectful session dedicated to honoring the memory of two esteemed members who recently passed away. The proceedings, held at the Vidhan Bhawan in Lucknow, saw the House adjourned for the entire day following the tribute ceremonies.
Two-Minute Silence and Condolence Motions
On the second working day of the crucial 2026-27 budget session, the Assembly observed a solemn two-minute silence as a mark of respect for the departed souls. The tribute was formally initiated through condolence motions moved by the Leader of the House and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
The motions honored Professor Shyam Bihari Lal, a BJP legislator, and Vijay Singh Gond, a senior leader from the Samajwadi Party. Both leaders had made significant contributions to public life and their respective constituencies.
Remembering Professor Shyam Bihari Lal
Chief Minister Adityanath, while moving the motion, described Professor Lal as a simple and people-oriented leader who was deeply committed to the welfare of the poor and marginalized sections of society. Lal, aged 60, served as a two-time MLA from the Faridpur constituency in Bareilly district.
His political journey saw him first elected in 2017 and re-elected in 2022 on a BJP ticket. Beyond politics, Lal had a strong association with the education sector, notably serving as a member of the Jawaharlal Nehru University executive council. He passed away on January 2, 2026.
Paying Homage to Vijay Singh Gond
In his tribute to Vijay Singh Gond, Chief Minister Adityanath highlighted Gond's stature as a senior legislator and a powerful voice for the tribal community. Known for his simplicity and a public life driven by struggle, Gond represented the Duddhi constituency in Sonbhadra district.
Gond, aged 71, had an impressive political career, having been elected to the Assembly eight times since 1980. Over the years, he represented various parties, with the Samajwadi Party being his most recent affiliation. His demise occurred on January 8, 2026.
Cross-Party Tributes and Unified Condolences
The tribute session witnessed a rare display of unity across political lines. Leader of the Opposition Mata Prasad Pandey joined leaders from several parties, including the Congress, Jansatta Dal (Loktantrik), and the Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP), in paying heartfelt tributes.
All speakers recalled the substantial contributions of both Lal and Gond to public life, emphasizing their dedication and service. Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana conveyed condolences on behalf of the entire House, assuring that the expressed sentiments would be formally communicated to the bereaved families.
Session Adjournment and Upcoming Budget
Following the completion of the tribute proceedings, the House was adjourned until Wednesday. The adjournment sets the stage for the presentation of the state budget for the financial year 2026-27, a key event in the ongoing session.
This solemn tribute underscores the Assembly's respect for its members and their enduring legacies, even as it prepares to address the state's fiscal future.
