Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday launched a sharp attack on the Samajwadi Party (SP) in the Assembly, alleging that during its rule, traders were subjected to exploitation and forced to pay a “goonda tax” under the guise of democracy.
Opening the Monsoon Session, CM Yogi accused the SP of engaging in “negative politics” in Sambhal, Bahraich, and Gorakhpur, and cautioned Leader of Opposition Mata Prasad Pandey against being used for others’ political gains.
He criticised SP’s opposition to the Gorakhpur Heritage Corridor project, describing it as “anti-development.” The project aims to connect iconic city landmarks such as Ghantaghar and Gitapress while addressing congestion and illegal encroachments in the city’s oldest market. Yogi assured fair compensation to all affected traders.
Taking a swipe at the SP’s governance record, the CM recalled that encephalitis claimed 700–1500 children’s lives annually during its rule, yet no meaningful action was taken. He alleged that health, education, and infrastructure never featured among SP’s priorities.
According to Yogi, Gorakhpur traders protested Pandey’s visit due to lingering memories of fear and extortion from the SP era. “The traders have not forgotten their exploitation. You went there uninvited to obstruct development, and they opposed you,” he said.
The CM also cited the “infamous Sambhal incident” as an example of SP’s legacy, claiming his government is working to “purify” the atmosphere in the region. He accused SP of persistently opposing development initiatives, asserting, “The BJP and NDA governments are committed to progress, but SP cannot tolerate it.”