Yogi Adityanath Criticizes Former Samajwadi Party Government While Announcing Free LPG Cylinders for 1.86 Crore Uttar Pradesh Residents

Adityanath emphasized the importance of supporting local artisans and purchasing indigenous products during festive seasons.

Lucknow:

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a scathing critique of the former Samajwadi Party administration on Wednesday, claiming that its leadership, including then-Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, "bowed down before rioters and criminals" and allowed festivals to be overshadowed by unrest and lawlessness during their tenure.

While speaking at an event distributing LPG refill subsidies to Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries, Adityanath highlighted how the BJP government has established peace across the state, ensuring that all festivals—from Diwali to Eid, Christmas to Ram Navami—have been celebrated peacefully throughout their eight-and-a-half years in power.

"Prior to 2017, governance revolved solely around the 'Saifai' family. Festivals were marred by riots, and the joy of celebrations was suppressed by disorder. Criminals operated freely while the underprivileged were denied welfare benefits. Samajwadi Party ministers, leaders, and even the chief minister himself would prostrate before criminals and rioters," Adityanath asserted.

He claimed that the BJP's "double-engine government" transformed this environment by treating all state residents as part of one unified family.

"We abolished family-centric rule and implemented a governance model that provides benefits without discrimination based on caste, religion, or background," he stated.

The Ujjwala subsidy distribution event was organized to provide free LPG cylinders to 1.86 crore beneficiaries across Uttar Pradesh ahead of Diwali, which Adityanath described as "a festival gift" from the state government.

"We have released a total subsidy of Rs 1,500 crore to benefit 1.86 crore people," he announced, with senior state minister Suresh Khanna and BJP Rajya Sabha MP Dinesh Sharma in attendance.

Adityanath explained that since 2021, the state has ensured Ujjwala beneficiaries receive free LPG cylinders twice annually—during Holi and Diwali celebrations.

"Festivals are meant for communal celebration, not solitary observance. This initiative demonstrates our dedication to alleviating household burdens," he said.

The Chief Minister commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for empowering disadvantaged communities, noting, "Only after Modi ji became Prime Minister did welfare schemes begin reaching the poor without discrimination. Before 2014, obtaining an LPG connection required bribery." He added that over 11 crore people nationwide have received LPG connections under the Ujjwala Yojana, including 1.86 crore families in Uttar Pradesh who previously relied on wood, coal, cow dung, or kerosene for cooking.

"The smoke from these traditional fuels caused illness and suffering. Now, with LPG access, women and families enjoy healthier lives," Adityanath remarked.

Addressing law enforcement, the Chief Minister warned, "Anyone who attempts to disrupt peace or create disturbances during festivals will face imprisonment. We will take action regardless of who they are." He emphasized that under BJP governance, "those threatening women or disturbing peace will face immediate consequences—Yamaraj awaits them at the next crossing."

Reaffirming his administration's commitment to safety and justice, Adityanath declared, "The government stands resolutely with every daughter, traveler, trader, youth, underprivileged person, and Dalit. No exploitation or harm will be tolerated."

He identified women's safety, youth employment, and protecting the rights of disadvantaged populations as central priorities for his administration.

Adityanath also urged citizens to support local artisans and purchase indigenous products during Diwali celebrations.

"Every diya lit this Diwali should be crafted by our potters, every Lakshmi and Ganesh idol by our local artisans, and every gift should be made in India. The revenue should benefit our laborers, craftspeople, and small entrepreneurs—that represents true nation-building," Adityanath emphasized.

He concluded that collective efforts are essential for developing a 'Viksit Bharat' (developed India), as "prosperity will only arrive when local workers' earnings increase."