UP Politics: Akhilesh Yadav Accuses Yogi Adityanath Of Insulting Lord Krishna, Questions His Sanatan Dharma Credentials

Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath harshly criticized Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday for his remarks that deemed people from Uttarakhand as infiltrators. Addressing the Uttarakhand Mahotsav-2026 in Lucknow, Yogi made a personal reference implying that if an Uttarakhandi woman had not entered his life, he would continue to herd buffalo in Saifai.

At the event, the Chief Minister denounced the narrow and divisive perception towards Uttarakhandis, emphasizing the historical significance of Uttarakhand's contribution to Uttar Pradesh and the nation. He recalled that Uttar Pradesh's first Chief Minister, Govind Ballabh Pant, was originally from the region now known as Uttarakhand, questioning the rationale behind referring to people from Uttarakhand as outsiders.

Yogi highlighted the state's vital role in national security, mentioning prominent Uttarakhand natives who serve in the armed forces, such as General Bipin Rawat, General Anil Chauhan, and Ajit Doval. He also pointed out that rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, Saryu, Ramganga, and Rapti all originate from Uttarakhand, underscoring its geographical, cultural, and spiritual importance.

Yogi accused certain political factions of showing sympathy for alleged Bangladeshi and Pakistani infiltrators while disparaging Uttarakhandis, arguing that their politics demonstrated a divisive attitude and disregarded the state's sacrifices. He praised the Uttarakhand Mahaparishad for preserving the region's folk traditions, music, cuisine, and cultural heritage for 78 years, promising continued government support and reaffirming that Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant Upvan will remain dedicated to Uttarakhand's cultural programs.

This exchange has heightened the political rivalry between the BJP and Samajwadi Party in the lead-up to the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections.