Akhilesh Yadav Turns Up Heat on UP Government Over Corruption, Law and Order

Lucknow, August 31, 2026 Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has stepped up his criticism of the Uttar Pradesh government, targeting it over alleged corruption, the functioning of honest officials, police conduct and law-and-order concerns. Reacting to IAS officer Divya Mittal’s resignation, Yadav alleged that honest officers were being prevented from working freely and were increasingly choosing to leave service before retirement. "Honest officers do not wish to work due to corruption. They are not allowed to function. Honest officers are unable to do their jobs," he said. Yadav also accused the government of using inappropriate language while responding to Mittal’s resignation and claimed that officers committed to working with integrity were being discouraged from continuing in their posts. Yadav also raised the alleged assault and "third-degree torture" of farmer leaders Digvijay Bhati and Mohit Jatav in police custody in Meerut. The two leaders recounted their alleged ordeal publicly. "I would advise them to approach the court. Once our government is formed, I will ensure they get justice and respect," Yadav said. He alleged that they had suffered serious injuries but were not permitted to undergo medical examinations. Yadav further said that an FIR under Section 307, concerning attempt to murder, should be registered against the IPS officer if the rule of law was being followed. "Such an IPS officer has no right to remain in service," he said. The SP chief also accused the state government of failing to curb dacoity and looting and questioned its ability to ensure respect for women. Calling the BJP an "unrighteous gang", he alleged that its models were aimed at benefiting its own people. "They are the kind of people who would steal from a temple," he said. He further alleged that a mafia group from another state had entered Uttar Pradesh, opened fire and fled, referring to the "Gogi gang" and its alleged claim of responsibility. Yadav also attacked the government over civic issues, arguing that it had failed to provide solutions to basic problems. Citing water supply and drainage, he said pipes had been laid for supplying water but people were still facing disputes over drainage. His remarks placed governance, policing, corruption, crime and civic infrastructure at the centre of his latest political offensive against the Uttar Pradesh government.