On Tuesday, July 30, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took a strong stance against the Samajwadi Party (SP) while discussing the government's actions against illegal encroachments in Lucknow's Akbarnagar.

During a session in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, Adityanath responded to SP MLA Ravidas Mehrotra from Lucknow Central, emphasizing the historical importance of Lucknow's Gomti and Kukrail rivers. He pointed out that Akbarnagar, established in 1984, is predominantly composed of illegal constructions that have not withstood legal scrutiny in both the high court and the Supreme Court.

"We have provided rehabilitation for those who were wrongly registered using fake documents. Akbarnagar is no longer a 'nagar' but has transformed into 'Saumitra Van'," Adityanath stated. He explained that this change was made to honor Lord Ram's younger brother, Lakshman, and to give Lucknow a distinct identity.

Akbarnagar
Image Source: Wikipedia

Adityanath suggested that Mehrotra should be pleased with the government's efforts, including the introduction of a night safari in the UP capital. He remarked that while the government is investing funds, Mehrotra is benefiting from these initiatives and should express gratitude for such beneficial schemes.

The Chief Minister urged Mehrotra to visit Kukrail to witness its transformation from a drain to a river, highlighting the nationwide campaign for river rejuvenation. "We often say that water is life, but can we imagine life by destroying it?" he questioned.

Chief Minister's Critique of Samajwadi Party

Adityanath criticized the SP for simultaneously venerating the Gomti river as a "mother" while allowing it to become polluted. He called on Mehrotra to commend the government's efforts in rehabilitating the river.

Akbarnagar
Image Source: Reddit

In response to a query, Adityanath accused the Samajwadi Party of being associated with most of the land mafia who exploited the poor. He mentioned that a comprehensive report has been requested regarding the intentions behind marking areas in Indraprastha Nagar and Pant Nagar. "If someone acted with malicious intent, they will be held accountable. However, if the markings were precautionary, they serve to alert people about the rehabilitation of the Kukrail river," he explained.

The demolition of illegal structures on the Kukrail riverbed in Akbarnagar was completed on June 19. Approximately 1,169 illegal residential and 100 commercial properties were demolished using heavy machinery. The clearance of illegal encroachments on 24.5 acres of land began in December of the previous year, resulting in the demolition of over 1,320 illegal structures, including religious sites of both Hindu and Muslim communities.

Displaced families from Akbarnagar have been provided alternative housing under the PM Awas Yojna in other parts of Lucknow.

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