Akhilesh Yadav Condemns Varanasi Demolitions as “Political Vendetta”
Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav has strongly criticized the recent demolition drives in Varanasi, accusing the BJP-led government of using bulldozers for political revenge. The former Uttar Pradesh CM labeled the actions a “political exercise” targeting opposition voices and demanded an immediate halt. His statement reignites the debate over the legality and motives behind the demolitions in PM Narendra Modi’s parliamentary constituency.
Why Are Demolitions Happening in Varanasi?
Over recent weeks, Varanasi’s administration has conducted multiple demolition campaigns, citing illegal encroachments and urban development violations. Residential and commercial structures have been razed, displacing numerous families. While officials claim these are necessary for city beautification and compliance, critics argue they disproportionately affect Muslim-majority areas and political opponents.
Akhilesh Yadav accused the BJP of using bulldozers as “tools of intimidation,” stating, “These demolitions aren’t about development—they’re about suppressing dissent and marginalizing communities.”
Political Backlash and Legal Scrutiny
The SP chief’s remarks have split reactions: Opposition parties like Congress and AAP support his stance, while BJP leaders, including UP Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya, defend the drives as lawful actions against illegal constructions.
However, human rights groups and residents question the transparency, alleging insufficient notice before demolitions. The Allahabad High Court has taken suo motu cognizance, seeking clarity from the state on whether due process was followed.
Controversial Pattern in UP Demolitions
This isn’t the first time UP’s demolition drives have sparked outrage. Similar operations in Prayagraj, Kanpur, and Lucknow faced allegations of political timing—often coinciding with elections or unrest. Critics claim they selectively target opposition-supporting communities.
Akhilesh linked the Varanasi actions to diverting attention from economic issues: “Instead of solving unemployment and inflation, BJP is bulldozing homes.”
Legal and Humanitarian Crisis
Experts stress that while municipalities can remove illegal structures, proper notice and hearings are mandatory. The Supreme Court has reinforced this, yet activists argue Varanasi’s demolitions bypassed safeguards.
The humanitarian toll is severe, with many displaced families lacking resources to rebuild. Despite civil society’s calls for rehabilitation, the state hasn’t announced concrete measures.
What’s Next for Varanasi?
With the High Court monitoring the case, judicial scrutiny may determine the demolitions’ legality. Meanwhile, opposition protests could escalate, turning this into a key issue ahead of the 2024 elections.
As Varanasi—a spiritual hub—becomes a political battleground, the central question lingers: Are these demolitions about development or silencing dissent? The answer could sway public sentiment nationwide.
For now, bulldozers and controversies roll on.
— NextMinuteNews
