New Delhi [India], June 18: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Praveen Khandelwal launched a sharp attack on Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday, accusing the opposition-led INDIA bloc of engaging in “politics of opportunism.” This came in response to Yadav’s claim that the alliance would contest the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections together.
Reacting to Yadav’s remarks, Khandelwal dismissed the stability of the INDIA alliance, stating,
“What INDIA alliance is he talking about? No one knows who is a friend and who is a foe. We saw this during the Lok Sabha elections and continue to see it in various state elections. This alliance exists only when convenient, and falls apart when it isn’t. It’s pure opportunistic politics.”
On Tuesday, during a press conference in Lucknow, Akhilesh Yadav reiterated that the INDIA alliance remains united and would fight the upcoming 2027 UP polls as a cohesive unit.
Khandelwal responded by alleging that Yadav’s comments stem from fear of the BJP’s growing influence in the state under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
“Akhilesh Yadav is making big promises because he’s worried. Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the leadership of Yogi Adityanath, the BJP government is winning people’s hearts in Uttar Pradesh,” Khandelwal asserted.
On June 17, Yadav stated,
“We don’t care about statements made by others. Our INDIA alliance is intact. Those who want to leave are free to do so. The alliance will contest the 2027 UP Assembly elections together.”
He also took aim at the state government over the recent Maha Kumbh Mela stampede.
“This government has announced Rs 5 lakh in compensation for the victims, but refuses to officially name them,” Yadav said.
The political temperature in Uttar Pradesh continues to rise as parties begin early positioning for the crucial 2027 elections.