Lucknow erupted in political fervor on Monday as the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly’s budget session loomed large. Samajwadi Party (SP) lawmakers and council members staged a dramatic protest right in the assembly premises, rallying near the statue of former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh. Their chants rang out sharply against the BJP-led state government, setting a combative tone even before the session officially began.
In a striking display of resolve, SP MLC Ashutosh Sinha pedaled his way to the assembly on a bicycle, drawing attention to his cause. He vowed to spotlight the controversial demolition of temples in Varanasi during the session, calling it a grave issue that demands immediate debate. SP Legislature Party leader Aradhana Mishra Mona joined the fray, amplifying the opposition’s voice against the ruling dispensation.
As the budget session unfolds, opposition parties are gearing up to corner the Yogi Adityanath government on a slew of pressing matters. Expect heated exchanges over the special revision of voter lists (SIR), codeine cough syrup smuggling, soaring unemployment, women’s safety concerns, and even foreign policy missteps. SP members are poised to register strong protests during their speeches, ensuring these issues dominate the agenda.
The session’s formalities will follow the Governor’s address, paving the way for key legislative business. Proceedings on Tuesday will commence with tributes to late former and current members, adjourning until Wednesday when the state government unveils the 2026-27 budget. Tight security blankets the Vidhan Bhavan and surrounding areas amid the charged atmosphere.
Prior to this, a Sunday all-party meeting and business advisory committee session saw leaders from all sides pledge smooth conduct of house proceedings. Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana urged cooperation, emphasizing that dialogue, discussion, and healthy debate form the bedrock of parliamentary democracy. He reminded everyone that the assembly is a forum for deliberation, not disruption.