Akhilesh Yadav Slams Government for Exacerbating Inequality, Urges Reinforcement of Secularism

Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav on Friday accused the ruling government of exacerbating inequality in the country through its policies and stressed the need for reinforcing secularism. His remarks came ahead of the Lok Sabha debate on the Constitution, which will mark the 75th anniversary of its adoption.

"It is the duty of every citizen to protect the Constitution, which serves as our guiding light and safeguard. The responsibility of the 'PDA parivaar' lies in upholding the Constitution. Due to the government’s decisions, inequality in the nation has escalated. Secularism must be reinforced," Yadav said, referring to the government's policies that he believes have deepened societal divides.

Yadav also criticized the government's proposal of 'One Nation, One Election,' calling it a political maneuver aimed at securing electoral dominance for the Bharatiya Janata Party. The proposal has been a point of contention in Indian politics, with critics arguing that it could centralize power and undermine federalism.

SP leader ST Hasan echoed Yadav’s concerns, condemning the initiative as part of a broader plan to consolidate power at the Centre. "This system is not feasible in our country. There is a hidden agenda behind it... the central government would have unchecked control. They are attempting to alter the Constitution. First, they speak of a common civil code, followed by 'One Nation, One Constitution.' Tomorrow, they might propose 'One Nation, One Culture,' and then 'One Nation, One Religion.' Conducting all elections simultaneously is simply not possible," Hasan asserted.

Meanwhile, on Thursday, the Union Cabinet approved the 'One Nation, One Election' bill, a significant step toward reforming the electoral process. The bill seeks to hold simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, aiming to streamline the election cycle and reduce costs. The first session of the winter Parliament, which began on November 25, was briefly adjourned due to disruptions and is now scheduled to continue until December 20.