Lucknow’s Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly paused on the second day of its budget session to honor two departed lawmakers, Professor Shyam Bihari Lal and veteran Vijay Singh Gond. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath presented the condolence motion, prompting the house to observe a two-minute silence in their memory. Proceedings were then adjourned until Wednesday.
CM Yogi highlighted Professor Shyam Bihari Lal’s dedication, noting his two terms as MLA from Faridpur in Bareilly district. Elected in 2017 and 2022 on a BJP ticket, Lal was a humble leader deeply connected to the masses. His commitment to the poor, marginalized communities, and education was unparalleled. A member of Jawaharlal Nehru University’s executive committee and chairman of Bareilly’s History Compilation Committee, Lal accelerated basic infrastructure in his constituency while championing welfare for the underprivileged.
Turning to Vijay Singh Gond, the Chief Minister described him as an eight-time MLA from Dudhi in Sonbhadra, a powerful voice for the tribal community. Gond’s political journey began in 1980, with victories in multiple elections across parties, culminating in a 2024 by-election win. Known for simplicity and clarity, he prioritized water, forest, land rights, alongside education, health, roads, and jobs. His life of struggle left an irreplaceable void in the state.
Yogi Adityanath expressed profound grief over Lal’s passing on January 2, 2026, at age 60, and Gond’s on January 8 at 71. Opposition leaders, including Leader of Opposition Mata Prasad Pandey from SP, Congress, JD(L), and SBSP, joined in paying respects, recalling their contributions to public service.
Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana conveyed the house’s condolences, emphasizing the loss of two seasoned representatives devoted to people’s welfare. With the motion passed, the session stands adjourned till Wednesday, when the 2026-27 state budget will be presented. The tribute underscored the assembly’s unity in mourning, reflecting on legacies that strengthened democratic traditions.