From Constitution to Farmers’ Crisis: Akhilesh Yadav Questions India’s Growth Model on Independence Day

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Lucknow: Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday used his Independence Day address to highlight constitutional values, democratic institutions, farmers' concerns and public welfare issues, while questioning the country's development model and the government's approach towards key sectors such as education, healthcare and infrastructure.

Addressing party workers at the Samajwadi Party headquarters in Lucknow on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day, Yadav paid tribute to freedom fighters and revolutionaries whose sacrifices, he said, made India's independence possible. He stated that the nation continues to draw inspiration from the courage and dedication of those who gave their lives for freedom.

The SP chief emphasized that the strength of the Constitution determines the strength of democracy. He said his party would continue working towards protecting constitutional values ​​and democratic principles, adding that any sacrifice required for safeguarding these foundations would be undertaken.

Constitution, Democracy and India's Development Debate

Beginning his address with references to India's freedom struggle and constitutional framework, Yadav said independence and democracy remain closely linked with the Constitution. He argued that the country's freedom, rights and democratic identity depend on maintaining the strength of constitutional institutions.

The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister said that the Constitution is the foundation of citizens' freedoms and warned that weakening constitutional principles could impact democratic rights. He maintained that strengthening constitutional values ​​would remain a key commitment of the Samajwadi Party.

Moving towards economic issues, Yadav questioned whether India's growth figures were translating into better living conditions for ordinary citizens. He argued that economic progress should not be measured only through indicators such as GDP growth, foreign investment and market expansion but also through per capita income, employment opportunities and improvements in the quality of life.

According to Yadav, a country's development should be reflected in the financial security of its citizens rather than only in large economic numbers. He said India's economic performance should be assessed alongside nations with similar growth levels to understand whether ordinary people are benefiting from development.

Farmers’ Welfare at Center of Independence Day Message

Farmers remained one of the major focus areas of Yadav's Independence Day speech. He said that despite decades of independence, the agricultural community continues to face serious challenges and remains one of the biggest concerns before the country.

The SP chief stressed that farmers require better irrigation facilities, timely availability of quality seeds, fertilizers and pesticides, along with fair prices for their produce. He argued that rural prosperity is essential for overall national development and that economic growth cannot be considered complete without improving the condition of farmers.

Yadav said rising input costs, unstable market conditions and inadequate returns continue to create difficulties for agricultural families. He maintained that policies focused on increasing farmers' income and ensuring economic stability are necessary for inclusive growth.

He also questioned the economic condition of families dependent on government ration schemes, arguing that the continued need for food assistance among a large section of society reflects deeper challenges related to income and employment.

Inflation, Fuel Prices and Welfare Concerns

During his address, Yadav raised concerns over inflation and increasing fuel prices, claiming that rising petrol and diesel costs have affected household budgets, transportation expenses, agriculture and overall economic activity.

He argued that fuel prices have a wider impact on citizens as they influence the cost of essential goods and services. The SP leader also raised concerns over alleged fuel-related irregularities and said controlling inflation should remain a priority for the government.

Commenting on financial assistance schemes, Yadav questioned the credibility of promises made by political opponents. Referring to claims regarding monetary support for women, he questioned how those who could not provide smaller financial assistance earlier could be expected to deliver larger amounts in the future.

He also announced that if the Samajwadi Party returns to power in Uttar Pradesh, the Samajwadi Pension scheme would be restarted and financial assistance of ₹40,000 annually would be provided to mothers and sisters.

Education and Healthcare Infrastructure Under Focus

Yadav also targeted the government's policies on education and healthcare, alleging that both sectors require urgent attention. He claimed that the education system is facing serious challenges and alleged that thousands of primary schools in Uttar Pradesh have been closed, affecting children from rural and economically weaker backgrounds. He argued that strengthening government schools is necessary to ensure equal access to education.

On healthcare, the SP chief alleged that government hospitals are struggling due to shortages of doctors, medicines and essential facilities. He criticized the focus on building new medical institutions while existing hospitals continue to face operational difficulties. Yadav argued that healthcare improvement requires better staffing, adequate medicines, modern equipment and efficient management of existing facilities.

Raising concerns over infrastructure projects, Yadav questioned the quality of construction work by referring to damage caused to major roads after rainfall. He alleged that large investments in infrastructure require greater accountability and transparency.

The SP chief also criticized the state's law-and-order situation, claiming that policing has deteriorated under the current government. He alleged that political considerations were receiving more attention than public safety.

Remarks on Nationalism and Political Differences

Yadav also launched a political attack while discussing nationalism and the use of the national flag. He alleged that those who earlier did not respect the Tricolour were now organizing flag marches.

He said different political groups have different interpretations of nationalism, claiming that the Samajwadi Party's idea of ​​nationalism represents diversity and inclusiveness, while accusing the BJP of promoting a narrower version.

Addressing the issue of women's reservation, Yadav questioned why the implementation of the Women's Reservation Bill has been delayed despite its passage in Parliament. He said the government should implement the legislation from 2027 and claimed that his party supports increasing women's representation in politics. He also criticized political speeches from the Red Fort, saying that the historic platform should be used for truth and accountability rather than political claims.

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