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SP Chief Alleges Institutional Pressure, Questions Government on Foreign Funds and Democratic Accountability
Pooja Srivastava | Anytime News Network
FCRA Bill Under Fire
Samajwadi Party national president and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav launched a sharp attack on the BJP government over the FCRA and Delimitation Bills. Speaking to the media on Monday in the Parliament complex, Yadav alleged that the government was seeking greater control over institutions through the proposed FCRA framework.
He claimed that organisations receiving legitimate foreign funding for social and public-interest activities could face pressure and intimidation.
Allegations of Targeting Institutions
Yadav alleged that the proposed FCRA legislation could be used to trouble institutions and minorities. He also raised allegations concerning land encroachments in Uttar Pradesh and accused the BJP of attempting to gain control over properties and institutions.
Land and Ayodhya Issue
The SP chief alleged that illegal encroachments have taken place on a large scale in Uttar Pradesh, including on vacant land and ponds. Referring to Ayodhya, he alleged that matters connected with faith had been used amid sharp increases in land prices.
Questions on Money Going Abroad
Yadav questioned the government over its earlier promises regarding black money and the movement of funds outside India. He asked what measures had been taken to prevent money from leaving the country and argued that the government should explain its policy on capital moving abroad.
Opposition Questions Democracy
The SP chief accused the BJP government of avoiding questions raised by the Opposition. He said asking questions of the government is a fundamental responsibility of the Opposition in a democracy, but alleged that the government was unwilling to provide answers.
Students and Protest Cases
Yadav also referred to alleged police action against students and young people in Delhi, including tear gas and lathi-charge, and cases registered against students in Prayagraj. He alleged that assurances that protesters would not face cases were not honoured.
Delimitation Sparks Questions
On the Delimitation Bill, Yadav questioned the proposed changes to electoral constituencies. He also demanded clarity from the government on the country’s present territorial boundaries and area.
Mamata Attack Condemned
Yadav termed the reported attack on former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee deeply unfortunate and condemnable. Describing her as a senior political leader and former chief minister, he said ensuring her security was the government’s responsibility.
