Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh): Amidst a fervent crowd at Prayagraj’s Phulpur, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav found themselves engaged in an impromptu conversation on stage as their scheduled public meeting faced cancellation due to a stampede-like situation.
Akhilesh Yadav reiterated his belief in the INDIA bloc’s potential to secure 79 out of 80 seats in Uttar Pradesh, setting the stage for a fierce electoral battle in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stronghold, Varanasi, which he metaphorically dubbed as ‘Kyoto’.
In a thinly veiled jab at PM Modi’s pledge to transform Varanasi akin to Japan’s Kyoto city, Akhilesh remarked, “The Prime MP had assured Kashi’s people that ‘Kyoto’ would become the world’s premier city. Its fruition, however, rests upon the electorate’s judgment in the upcoming polls.”
The reference to Kyoto serves as a critique of PM Modi’s unfulfilled promises regarding Varanasi’s development.
Taking a swipe at PM Modi’s popular radio program, Rahul Gandhi remarked, “Mann ki Baat won’t suffice this time. They must heed the voices of 140 crore people and abide by the Constitution.”
Discussing the issue of unemployment, Rahul Gandhi pointedly accused PM Modi of exacerbating the crisis in Uttar Pradesh.
Akhilesh Yadav drew attention to disillusioned youth in the audience, attributing their plight to unmet promises by the BJP, ranging from investment summits to defense exhibitions.
Reflecting on his father Mulayam Singh Yadav’s legacy, Akhilesh shared insights into his upbringing and values, emphasizing the importance of hard work, perseverance, and the struggle for equality.
Highlighting the solidarity within their alliance, Rahul Gandhi underscored the unprecedented unity among diverse parties in the INDIA alliance.
Akhilesh Yadav characterized the alliance between the Samajwadi Party and Congress as a natural alignment, resonating with the youth by prioritizing issues like employment.
In a scathing critique of the BJP, Akhilesh accused the party of unilateral decision-making, while Rahul Gandhi added, “Their autocratic approach dismisses the need for dialogue.”
Emphasizing the vitality of discourse, Akhilesh stressed that robust discussions and mutual trust are vital for a healthy democracy, contrasting it with what he perceives as the BJP’s threat to democratic values.
Addressing concerns over China’s encroachment, Akhilesh highlighted the need for bolstering India’s borders and manufacturing sector to counter external threats.
On the topic of caste-based reservations, Akhilesh advocated for social justice and a comprehensive caste census, drawing parallels with welfare measures in Western nations to uplift marginalized communities based on caste.
