Delhi: The ongoing political tensions in Uttar Pradesh escalated on Thursday as Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were stopped from visiting Sambhal, a region recently shaken by violence. Their attempt to reach the affected area was thwarted by authorities, prompting sharp criticism from Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera.
In a statement reflecting growing frustration within the opposition ranks, Khera questioned the democratic ethos under the BJP-led government in Uttar Pradesh. “It doesn’t look like there is democracy in UP,” Khera remarked, adding, “If Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath cannot take responsibility for addressing the situation, they should step aside. But why is the opposition being prevented from reaching out and helping the affected communities?”
The recent violence in Sambhal has drawn significant political attention, with opposition leaders highlighting governance lapses and alleging that the state government is not addressing the root causes of unrest. The Congress has been particularly vocal, criticizing both the central and state leadership for their perceived inaction.
Khera further intensified the attack, questioning the Prime Minister’s absence from the crisis-hit region. “Why didn’t he [PM Modi] go to Sambhal? It is unacceptable for a leader to remain silent or distant in moments of crisis. If he cannot fulfill his duties, why stop those who are willing to?”
The BJP has yet to respond to Khera’s remarks, but sources within the ruling party suggest that security concerns were the primary reason for preventing the Congress leaders from traveling to Sambhal. Meanwhile, Congress workers in Uttar Pradesh staged protests against what they termed “undemocratic suppression” of their leaders’ rights to engage with affected communities.
This incident marks another flashpoint in the ongoing confrontation between the Congress and the BJP over governance and democratic principles. As the Lok Sabha elections draw nearer, such events are likely to fuel further political debates and shape campaign narratives.
The violence in Sambhal remains under investigation, with calls from civil society for a thorough and impartial inquiry. Meanwhile, the people of the region continue to await tangible steps toward peace and stability amidst the political tug-of-war.
