Akhilesh Yadav defends PDA, accuses BJP of targeting Brahmins and opposition workers

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav addressed a Brahmin gathering at the party's headquarters on the birthday of the late socialist leader Janeshwar Mishra. Yadav reaffirmed that his party's 'PDA' includes Pandits, while accusing the Uttar Pradesh BJP government of targeting opposition workers, Brahmins, and religious figures like Shankaracharyas. At the event, Yadav claimed the PWD denied his party the use of Janeshwar Mishra Park in Gomti Nagar, compelling them to hold the meeting at their office instead.

Defending PDA, Yadav asserted that the BJP's desperation to redefine the term since losing the 2022 elections demonstrates its weakness. He emphasized that 'PD' in PDA represents Pandits, and their relentless opposition only strengthens the movement. Recalling Mishra's pivotal role in the socialist movement, Yadav referred to him as "Chhote Lohia" and noted the park named after him in Lucknow as a testament to his legacy.

However, Yadav also accused the BJP of persecuting opposition workers and alleged cover-ups of incidents involving SP members. Without naming names, he criticized the state health department, stating it had been "completely ruined."

Furthermore, Yadav criticized the BJP for insulting religious institutions and alleged that Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati was prevented from taking a holy dip during the Kumbh Mela. He pointed out that the Shankaracharya had to protest, and the police mistreated his followers. Saraswati even filed a false POCSO case to thwart the intimidation, but Yadav claimed the leader did not back down.