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From commercial LPG prices to smart meters, Akhilesh targets BJP
On May 3, 2026, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav held a press conference in Lucknow criticizing the BJP on rising commercial LPG prices, smart meters, and EVM security. He alleged irregularities in the smart meter system, warned about potential EVM vulnerabilities, and accused BJP propaganda while highlighting education concerns, laptops for top students, and a pledge of free KG-to-PG education if SP returns to power in 2027.
Why It Matters
The remarks illustrate SP's campaign messaging ahead of elections, focusing on energy costs, electoral technology, and education policy while portraying BJP as propagandist and corrupt. They signal potential themes SP may push to mobilize voters in Uttar Pradesh.
Timeline
7 Events
Promise of free KG-to-PG education if SP returns to power
May 3, 2026
Yadav announced that upon the formation of a Samajwadi government in 2027, provisions for free education spanning from Kindergarten (KG) to Post-Graduate (PG) levels would be implemented.
Laptops distributed to meritorious students
May 3, 2026
He honoured the top-ranking students of the High School and Intermediate examinations by presenting them with laptops and wished them a bright future.
Allegations on closures of primary schools
May 3, 2026
Yadav alleged that the government has shut down 21,000 primary schools and that in over 41,000 other primary schools, not a single student was enrolled.
Criticism of BJP propaganda and performance on inflation and corruption
May 3, 2026
He described propaganda as BJP's targeted campaign strategy and claimed the party has not curbed inflation or corruption, asserting that associates profiteer and that inflation and corruption have reached their zenith.
Claims BJP intends to spread hatred via DJ-based provocations
May 3, 2026
Yadav alleged that the BJP was preparing to spread hatred across the state by playing controversial songs through DJ systems and urged the public to remain vigilant.
Allegations of irregularities in smart meter system and concerns over EVM security
May 3, 2026
He argued that widespread irregularities are being committed through the smart meter system and suggested that such dishonesty could imply vulnerabilities in Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
Press conference at SP headquarters in Lucknow
May 3, 2026
Samajwadi Party national president Akhilesh Yadav held a press conference at the party headquarters in Lucknow, addressing rising commercial LPG prices, smart meters, and EVM security.