Political Tensions Surrounding Jayaprakash Narayan’s Birth Anniversary

Denial of Permission Sparks Controversy

Recently, the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) denied permission for Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav to visit the Jai Prakash Narayan International Centre (JPNIC) on the freedom fighter’s birth anniversary. This decision has led to significant controversy.

In response, BJP national spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari seized the opportunity to assert that the Samajwadi Party has lost touch with Jai Prakash Narayan’s ideals. He further accused the entire INDIA alliance of resorting to “political stunts” after their defeat in the Haryana assembly elections.

BJP’s Accusations Against Akhilesh Yadav

Bhandari stated, “Akhilesh Yadav is playing politics. The notice issued clearly indicates that the construction is incomplete”. He argued that if Yadav had genuine intentions, he could have easily paid tribute to Jai Prakash Narayan from his office.

Moreover, Bhandari emphasized that the Samajwadi Party’s alliance with Congress contradicts the principles that Jai Prakash Narayan stood for. He added, “After their defeat in Haryana, they realize that the people want PM Narendra Modi to carry forward Jai Prakash Narayan’s ideals”.

Additionally, Bhandari suggested that Yadav likely faces a loss in the upcoming by-elections. To distract from this possibility, he believes Yadav will try to play the victim, similar to what Arvind Kejriwal is doing in Delhi. He posed a critical question: “If you truly believe in Jai Prakash Narayan’s ideals, why align with Congress, a party associated with the emergency?”

SP’s Commitment to Honor Jai Prakash Narayan

In contrast, SP MLA Ravidas Malhotra firmly declared their intention to honor Jai Prakash Narayan despite government restrictions. He criticized the BJP-led state government, insisting that they would not be silenced by oppression or injustice.

“JPNIC was established during the Samajwadi Party’s tenure,” he asserted. “We intended to garland his statue on his birth anniversary, but the BJP government is preventing this. We will break through the barricades.”

JPNIC Sealed Off Ahead of Anniversary

As the birth anniversary approached, authorities sealed off JPNIC and set up barricades. Consequently, police forces deployed to prevent Yadav’s planned visit. In response to the LDA’s refusal of permission due to security concerns, Yadav arrived at JPNIC the evening before.

Upon his arrival, Yadav expressed his frustration. “The government wants to conceal something with this tin barrier. Why are they preventing us from honoring a great leader?” he asked.

Yadav pointed out that this suppression is not new. Every year, SP leaders and workers gather to pay their respects. “This isn’t under construction; it will be sold,” he remarked, questioning the government’s motives.

Criticism of the BJP’s Approach

Furthermore, Yadav continued to criticize the BJP’s actions. He stated, “The ostentatious Amritkal of freedom under BJP rule is evident. A wall has been erected to prevent people from paying tribute. This closed path reflects their narrow-mindedness”.

He concluded with a sharp remark about the BJP‘s attitude toward freedom fighters: “The BJP harbors animosity toward every freedom fighter like Jayaprakash Narayan ji. Their guilt for not participating in the struggle prevents them from honoring revolutionaries, even on their birth anniversaries. This is condemnable!”

Conclusion: A Growing Political Divide

As tensions rise, the contrasting narratives between the Samajwadi Party and the BJP continue to unfold. This situation not only draws public attention to the ideals of Jai Prakash Narayan but also highlights the ongoing struggle for political expression.