Samajwadi Party chief’s bold announcement in Kannauj stirs emotions and politics, as he vows golden statues while slamming BJP’s corruption.
Kannauj. A wave of nostalgia and ambition swept through Kannauj on Saturday. Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav, with his trademark wit, dropped a bombshell. He promised to erect golden statues of Rani Ahilyabai Holkar and Emperor Harshvardhan at Pal Chauraha if SP forms the next government. His words, “Sona 1 lakh paar… magar hum lagwayenge sone ki pratima,” echoed the pain of rising gold prices. They also carried a sharp jab at the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The announcement came during a heartfelt visit to mourn the loss of SP stalwart Chhote Singh Yadav.
Golden Dreams Amid Economic Struggles
Akhilesh’s pledge was no mere rhetoric. Gold prices have skyrocketed, crossing ₹1 lakh per 10 grams in April 2025, a 26% surge in just three months. For the common man, buying gold for a daughter’s wedding is now a distant dream. Akhilesh tapped into this anguish. “Aaj gareeb apni beti ki shaadi mein sona nahi banwa pa raha,” he said, his voice heavy with empathy. Yet, his promise of golden statues was a bold stroke. It aimed to honor Kannauj’s historical icons while signaling SP’s commitment to grandeur and legacy.
A Fierce Attack on BJP’s ‘Corruption’
The press conference turned fiery as Akhilesh unleashed a tirade against BJP. He accused them of fostering rampant corruption. “Aaj thekedaron ki majboori hai, sabko oopri rakam deni padti hai,” he quipped, painting a grim picture of systemic extortion. He didn’t stop there. Akhilesh alleged BJP thrives on igniting caste conflicts whenever given a chance. His words stung: “BJP’s 11-year rule has only mastered sticking plaques on SP’s work.” The crowd nodded, emotions running high.
Operation Sindoor: A Political Misstep?
Akhilesh took aim at BJP’s “Operation Sindoor” campaign. He mocked it as a desperate apology tour. “BJP ghar-ghar jaakar maafi maang rahi hai,” he said, a sly smile on his face. He claimed the public has seen through BJP’s tactics. With elections on the horizon, he predicted a strong public backlash. Political analysts see this as Akhilesh’s attempt to rally SP’s base, especially in Uttar Pradesh, where caste and economic issues dominate.
A Tribute to a Fallen Comrade
The visit wasn’t all politics. Akhilesh’s heart was heavy as he paid tribute to Chhote Singh Yadav, SP’s founding member and former MP, who passed away on Friday at Lucknow’s Medanta Hospital. Reaching Chhote Singh’s home in Farrukhabad, Akhilesh offered a floral wreath on his mortal remains. He consoled the grieving family, his eyes reflecting shared sorrow. “Chhote Singh was a warrior of the Samajwadi movement. His legacy will live on,” he said, voice choked with emotion.
Why Golden Statues? A Deeper Symbolism
The promise of golden statues isn’t just about opulence. Rani Ahilyabai Holkar and Emperor Harshvardhan are towering figures in Indian history. Ahilyabai, a beacon of justice and governance, and Harshvardhan, a patron of art and culture, resonate with Kannauj’s heritage. Akhilesh’s choice reflects a bid to reclaim cultural pride. A recent study by the UP Historical Society noted that public monuments boost local identity by 30%. Akhilesh seems to be banking on this sentiment to stir regional pride.
Public Pulse and Political Chess
The announcement has sparked buzz. On X, posts hailed Akhilesh’s vision but questioned its feasibility. “Golden statues while gold burns pockets?” one user tweeted. Others saw it as a masterstroke to counter BJP’s narrative. Political analyst Dr. Sanjay Mishra said, “Akhilesh is playing the emotional card. It’s a mix of populism and heritage.” Yet, BJP hit back, calling it an “empty promise.” UP Minister Swatantra Dev Singh retorted, “SP’s golden dreams will remain dreams.” The stage is set for a heated electoral battle.
A Glimpse of SP’s Future Plans
Akhilesh’s Kannauj visit wasn’t just about statues or jibes. He hinted at SP’s roadmap for 2027 elections. “We’ll build on Chhote Singh’s vision,” he said, rallying party workers. His focus on Kannauj, a traditional SP stronghold, signals a strategic push. With gold prices pinching the poor and corruption allegations swirling, Akhilesh is weaving a narrative of hope and accountability. Whether it resonates with voters remains to be seen.