UP Monsoon Session Begins Amid Opposition Protest and Political Clash

Lucknow: The Monsoon Session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislature commenced on Monday amid high political drama and protests by opposition parties. Even before the House assembled, Samajwadi Party (SP) and Congress legislators staged demonstrations outside the Assembly, accusing the state government of failing to address several public issues.

SP leaders arrived carrying banners and posters targeting the government. Some workers also brought donation boxes filled with coins as a symbolic protest. SP leader Zahid Baig reached the Assembly on a bicycle while highlighting issues related to the Ram Temple donation controversy and E20 petrol.

The opposition claimed that the government must answer questions regarding the alleged Ram Temple donation issue, the NEET paper leak, farmers' problems, unemployment, and inflation. Congress legislators joined the protest and announced that these issues would also be raised inside the House.

Before the session began, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath welcomed all legislators and said democratic dialogue remains the strongest foundation of governance. He stated that his government has worked continuously over the past nine years to improve development and public welfare through constructive discussions.

Responding to the opposition's criticism, the Chief Minister accused the Samajwadi Party of neglecting farmers during its tenure. He said sugarcane farmers faced unpaid dues under previous governments and criticised the opposition for raising issues related to Ayodhya.

Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, along with Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Khanna, were present during the media interaction. The government indicated that several replacement bills for recently issued ordinances, along with new legislation, may be introduced during the session.

The Assembly also paid tribute to veteran SP MLA Alambadi, one of the oldest legislators in the House. Following the condolence resolution, Assembly proceedings were adjourned until Tuesday morning, while the Legislative Council continued its scheduled business.

The four-day session is expected to witness heated debates on law and order, education, employment, agriculture, electricity, healthcare, and several legislative proposals. Both the ruling party and the opposition are expected to continue their political confrontation throughout the session.