BJP Criticizes Akhilesh Yadav Over Silence on Cleric's Remarks

A political row erupted in Lucknow after posters appeared criticizing Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav for not speaking out against a Muslim cleric's remarks targeting his wife, Dimple Yadav. The posters, initiated by BJP MLC Subhash Yaduvansh, questioned Yadav's ability to protect women in Uttar Pradesh.

The posters, which were removed shortly after being put up, featured images of both Akhilesh Yadav and cleric Maulana Sajid Rashidi, who allegedly commented on Dimple Yadav's attire during a mosque visit. An FIR was filed against Rashidi, accusing him of making statements that could incite community division.

BJP leaders, including Uttar Pradesh minister Baby Rani Maurya, criticized Yadav's silence on the issue as shameful, while SP's Mahila Sabha president Juhie Singh claimed Rashidi's comments were BJP-orchestrated. The incident has intensified political tensions, with accusations of undermining women's dignity and promoting division.

(With inputs from agencies.)