Hathras, August 10: Akash Anand, the national coordinator of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), recently took a swipe at Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi by referring to them as ‘Uncle.’ During a public meeting in Sadabad, Anand highlighted the age difference, stating he is 30 years old while Yadav is nearly 50, making the term ‘Uncle’ quite fitting.
Anand criticized Gandhi’s ‘Save the Constitution’ campaign, suggesting that while Gandhi carries a book on the Constitution, its pages are blank when flipped through. He launched a fierce attack on both the BJP and the opposition parties, including the SP and Congress, as he kicked off the BSP’s election campaign in Hathras.
He emphasized that merely mentioning the Constitution in Parliament is not enough; its core principles must be implemented on the ground. Anand accused both Congress and BJP of having similar policies, positioning himself as a distinct political alternative.
He also questioned Akhilesh Yadav’s slogan of ‘PDA,’ alleging that the SP has altered its definition for political convenience. Anand referenced the law and order situation during Yadav’s tenure, criticizing him for the riots that occurred.
Furthermore, he raised concerns about the rising prices of ethanol and petrol, claiming that the public is burdened with expensive petrol in the name of ethanol. He argued that while ethanol production from sugarcane should benefit farmers, the common man is not reaping the rewards. Anand also addressed the rising costs of cooking gas cylinders, noting that prices have surged from around ₹400 in 2014 to nearly ₹1,200 today.
He questioned the quality of expressways constructed in the state, citing issues with potholes on the Purvanchal and Bundelkhand expressways. In contrast, he praised the Agra-Noida expressway, built during Mayawati’s tenure, for maintaining its quality over the years.
Anand accused the BJP government of taking credit for the work done by previous administrations, stating, “Others do the work, but they cut the ribbon.” He also challenged the claims of the ‘double-engine’ government.
It is noteworthy that Akash Anand has recently returned to the electoral stage after a controversial statement in 2024 led to his temporary removal from party responsibilities. He has since been reinstated as the national coordinator.
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