Milkipur Bypoll Turns Political Battleground as Akhilesh Yadav, BJP Lock Horns in Ayodhya

Ayodhya (UP), Feb 3 (PTI) – With just days to go before the crucial Milkipur bypoll, political tensions in Uttar Pradesh are at an all-time high. Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav has framed the contest as a fight between "people and administration," declaring that the election is not just a political event but a direct challenge to the ruling BJP.

SP Accuses BJP of Deliberate Poll Postponement​

Addressing a rally in Milkipur on the final day of campaigning, Yadav alleged that the BJP had intentionally delayed the bypoll, fearing defeat. “The BJP knew the people of Milkipur would never abandon the Samajwadi Party, so they ensured the election was postponed. But those who run from elections will have to face the people's verdict,” he asserted while rallying support for SP candidate Ajit Prasad.

The Milkipur seat became vacant after SP’s Awadhesh Prasad won the Faizabad Lok Sabha constituency in 2024. Yadav believes the upcoming bypoll will shape the future of Uttar Pradesh’s political landscape, particularly the 2027 assembly elections.

BJP Hits Back, Questions Yadav’s Absence at Ram Temple​

In response, Uttar Pradesh BJP chief Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary questioned why Yadav did not visit the newly inaugurated Ram temple while in Ayodhya. He accused the SP leadership of historically opposing Sanatan Dharma and Hindu traditions.

"SP leaders have always disrespected our culture and faith. Their nature and character have been to oppose Sanatan," Chaudhary stated, urging voters to reject the SP and support the BJP's development-oriented governance.

SP Targets BJP Over Governance, Maha Kumbh Stampede​

Shifting focus to the state government’s handling of the Maha Kumbh, Yadav accused the BJP of gross mismanagement and underreporting of fatalities in the recent stampede. “They claim crores have attended the Maha Kumbh, but they won’t disclose the real number of casualties. The official figure of 30 deaths is incorrect,” he alleged.

Taking a jibe at Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Yadav remarked, “The CM claims he wakes up at 3 AM to monitor arrangements, but when the tragedy struck, where was he?” He further criticized the state government for breaking the traditional Sanatan practice of 'Shahi Snan' by not following the prescribed auspicious timings.

SP’s Vision for Ayodhya, Allegations of Land Grab​

Yadav also promised to transform Ayodhya into a world-class city if voted to power in 2027. He accused the BJP of land grabbing in the name of development, alleging that people's lands were seized to build luxury hotels. “If there is any land mafia in Uttar Pradesh, they are from the BJP,” he claimed.

Encouraging voters to turn out in large numbers, Yadav drew a parallel to the Ramayana, warning officials against crossing the “Lakshman Rekha” of the Constitution. “People know how Bali was punished by Lord Ram. The people of Ayodhya should do the same with those who cross the constitutional limits,” he remarked.

BJP Reminds Voters of 1990 Karsevak Firing​

Countering SP’s allegations, BJP leader Chaudhary reminded voters of the 1990 police firing on karsevaks in Ayodhya, which occurred during the SP government’s rule. He maintained that BJP’s governance is focused on development, faith, and cultural heritage.

High-Stakes Battle on February 5​

The Milkipur bypoll, scheduled for February 5, is expected to be a direct contest between the SP and BJP, with both parties fielding their top leaders for aggressive campaigning. The result, set to be declared on February 8, is likely to have significant implications for the state’s political trajectory ahead of the 2027 assembly elections.