Akhilesh Yadav Slams UP Government for Misusing Public Funds

Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav accuses the Uttar Pradesh government of misusing public funds and neglecting development, sparking a heated political debate.

June 20, 2025

In a fiery press conference on June 20, 2025, Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav launched a scathing attack on the Uttar Pradesh government, accusing it of misusing public funds and acting on whims rather than prioritizing the welfare of the state’s citizens. The former Chief Minister didn’t hold back, alleging that the current administration’s governance failures, coupled with poor infrastructure management, have left Uttar Pradesh grappling with inefficiency and unmet promises. His remarks have reignited political tensions, drawing attention to issues like the Purvanchal Expressway and the state’s handling of public services.

Misusing Public Funds: Akhilesh Yadav’s Core Allegations

Akhilesh Yadav, known for his vocal criticism of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), pointed to what he described as systemic mismanagement in the state. He accused the government of squandering public funds on projects that fail to meet basic standards. “These people came into power and did not build the expressway according to Indian Road Congress standards,” Yadav stated, referring to the Purvanchal Expressway, a flagship infrastructure project. He claimed that tenders issued during his tenure were canceled, and new contracts were awarded to favored contractors without adhering to proper norms.

Yadav’s allegations of misusing public funds extend beyond infrastructure. He highlighted conflicts across multiple departments, suggesting that internal discord has paralyzed effective governance. “There is another department responsible for village development,” he said, pointing to inefficiencies in rural upliftment initiatives. According to Yadav, the state’s focus has shifted away from development, leaving citizens to bear the brunt of poor planning and execution.

Purvanchal Expressway: A Symbol of Misusing Public Funds

The Purvanchal Expressway, a project often cited as a milestone in Uttar Pradesh’s infrastructure development, became a focal point of Yadav’s critique. He argued that the expressway, inaugurated with much fanfare, was an achievement rooted in the Samajwadi Party’s vision. “When the Prime Minister landed on the Purvanchal Expressway, he was standing on an achievement that belongs to the Samajwadi Party,” Yadav remarked, emphasizing that his government laid the groundwork for the project.

However, he accused the current administration of compromising on quality to cut costs, leading to substandard construction. Yadav’s comments resonate with some citizens who have raised concerns about the expressway’s maintenance and durability. By framing the issue as an example of misusing public funds, Yadav aims to rally support ahead of future elections, positioning the SP as a party committed to accountable governance.

Governance and Public Services Under Fire

Beyond infrastructure, Akhilesh Yadav targeted the state’s handling of essential services like electricity and education. He criticized the government’s policies on inflation and power supply, alleging that they have failed to address the needs of ordinary citizens. In a particularly pointed remark, Yadav responded to reports of the UP government shutting down thousands of schools with fewer than 50 students. “The school merger move in UP is a strategy to keep the poor living in villages away from education,” he said, accusing the administration of undermining rural communities.

This critique of misusing public funds ties into Yadav’s broader narrative of a government disconnected from the people. He argued that resources meant for public welfare are being diverted to projects that serve political interests rather than societal needs. His comments have sparked discussions on social media, with supporters praising his candidness while critics dismiss his allegations as political posturing.

Akhilesh Yadav’s Vision: A Return to Responsible Governance

Looking ahead, Yadav expressed confidence in the Samajwadi Party’s return to power, promising to revamp projects like the Purvanchal Expressway and prioritize development. “The Samajwadi Party government is going to return,” he declared, outlining plans to address the state’s challenges with transparency and efficiency. His vision includes improving infrastructure, ensuring access to education, and stabilizing electricity supply—areas he claims have been neglected due to the current government’s focus on misusing public funds.

Yadav also took aim at Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s remarks about a mysterious “D Company,” demanding clarity on the term. He accused the CM’s advisor of running false news campaigns to tarnish his image, further escalating the war of words between the SP and BJP. This exchange underscores the intensifying political rivalry in Uttar Pradesh as both parties gear up for upcoming electoral battles.

Public Reaction and Political Implications

Akhilesh Yadav’s allegations of misusing public funds have struck a chord with some sections of the public, particularly those frustrated with rising costs and inadequate services. On platforms like X, supporters have echoed his sentiments, sharing posts that highlight perceived governance failures. However, critics argue that Yadav’s tenure as Chief Minister was not without its own controversies, with some pointing to past allegations of financial mismanagement during his administration.

The political implications of Yadav’s remarks are significant. By framing the BJP’s governance as reckless and wasteful, he aims to position the Samajwadi Party as a viable alternative. His focus on issues like education, infrastructure, and electricity appeals to rural and urban voters alike, who are grappling with the challenges of inflation and unemployment. As Uttar Pradesh remains a key battleground in Indian politics, Yadav’s criticisms could shape public opinion in the lead-up to the next elections.

Why Misusing Public Funds Matters

The issue of misusing public funds is not just a political talking point—it’s a concern that affects every citizen. When resources are mismanaged, critical services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure suffer, leaving communities underserved. Yadav’s accusations highlight the need for transparency and accountability in governance, urging voters to demand better from their leaders. Whether his claims hold up under scrutiny or are dismissed as opposition rhetoric, they have sparked a necessary conversation about how public funds are utilized in Uttar Pradesh.

As the debate continues, Akhilesh Yadav’s press conference serves as a reminder of the power of political discourse in shaping narratives. His allegations of misusing public funds may galvanize his base, but they also put pressure on the ruling party to address these concerns. For now, Uttar Pradesh remains a hotbed of political activity, with the Samajwadi Party chief leading the charge against what he calls a government acting on whim.