Yogi vs Congress over 'fish feast' in Ayodhya: 'Even chameleon would be put to shame'

A political disagreement has developed between the BJP and Congress following allegations of a fish feast organized during a welcome event for newly appointed Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai in Ayodhya. The controversy surfaced after a video surfaced showing fish being prepared at a banquet hall during the gathering. Several local religious figures took issue with the food arrangements, citing the event's timing during the holy month of Sawan.

UP CM Yogi Adityanath accused Ajay Rai of "duplicity" over the alleged fish feast. He questioned why the Congress state president could enjoy a feast of fish while seemingly foregoing the opportunity to eat at other locations. Yogi Adityanath even criticized the Congress leader's behavior, comparing it unfavorably to a chameleon's actions. He also mocked the Congress party's history of aligning with Hindu traditions, stating that their actions undermine their credibility.

BJP MLA Ved Prakash Gupta further criticized the Congress over the alleged fish feast, alleging that the party's actions display a "dual standard." He contended that visiting temples in Ayodhya and then attending a feast involving fish exposed the Congress party's "anti-Hindu mindset." Additionally, UP BJP president Pankaj Chaudhary condemned the event as "highly condemnable and unforgivable," demanding a public apology from the Congress.

In response to the controversy, Ajay Rai denied any involvement in the food arrangements, challenging Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to provide evidence. He argued that if the Congress members were responsible for preparing the fish, it would be their concern. Nishad Samaj, which invited Ajay Rai to the program, took responsibility for the fish arrangements but explained that it was within their community's cultural practices. Rai urged the CM to provide photos or evidence to back up his accusations.

Congress MP Pawan Khera criticized the BJP, claiming that such controversies are raised to divert attention from more significant issues like the "paper leaks." He suggested that the allegations surrounding the fish feast were being used to shift focus away from pressing matters, including the theft of donations in Ayodhya. Khera questioned the relevance of the fish feast in relation to Ayodhya's historical significance and raised doubts about the allegations being used to distract from other important issues.