Lucknow erupted in political heat as Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Minister Sanjay Nishad unleashed a scathing attack on Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Nishad accused Yadav of doing absolutely nothing for the state’s residents during his years in power. ‘Akhilesh held the reins for so long, yet failed to take even a single step in the public’s interest,’ he declared. ‘If he had, Uttar Pradesh wouldn’t be grappling with the challenges it faces today.’
Nishad highlighted the current BJP government’s proactive approach to attracting investments. ‘Our administration is paving the way for massive investments in the state. Why are these opposition leaders so bothered?’ he questioned. He challenged the SP to reveal how much investment they brought during their tenure and what development initiatives they accelerated. ‘They have nothing to show for it. Now, when we’re working tirelessly for the people’s welfare, they raise objections.’
The minister reaffirmed the Yogi Adityanath government’s commitment to transforming Uttar Pradesh into India’s top state. ‘Our Chief Minister’s promises to the people are non-negotiable. We’re accelerating development without any shortcuts,’ he stated. Nishad dismissed concerns over unrelated issues like Avimukteshwaranand’s bail plea in the High Court, emphasizing that everyone has the right to judicial recourse.
On Deputy CM Keshav Prasad Maurya’s denied UK visa, Nishad called for a stronger India to end foreign ‘high-handedness.’ Regarding action against Umashankar, he supported investigative agencies but urged considering humanitarian aspects. Finally, he mocked the opposition’s desperation: ‘The public has decimated them. They’re issuing statements on every issue just to stay relevant. Such tactics won’t work in today’s political landscape.’
As UP gears up for future elections, Nishad’s remarks underscore the intensifying BJP-SP rivalry, with development and governance at the forefront.