Akhilesh Yadav Slams CM Yogi Adityanath Over Renaming Spree: ‘Will Cricketers’ Names Be Changed Too?’
Lucknow: Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav has launched a fresh attack on Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, mocking the BJP-led government’s ongoing spree of renaming cities and landmarks. In a sarcastic remark, Yadav questioned whether even cricketers’ names would be changed next, highlighting what he called the government’s misplaced priorities.
Speaking at a public event in Lucknow on Tuesday, Yadav accused the state government of focusing more on symbolic name changes rather than addressing real governance issues. “This government believes renaming places will solve all problems. Maybe they will even change cricketers’ names now. Will that create jobs for youth? Will it improve healthcare?,” he asked, drawing applause from his supporters.
The SP leader’s remarks come amid the Yogi Adityanath government’s continued push to rename places with historical or Mughal-era names. Over the past few years, cities like Allahabad have been renamed Prayagraj, Faizabad has been changed to Ayodhya, and recent reports suggest more locations may be next in line for similar changes.
Yadav slammed the government for what he described as “headline politics” and accused the BJP of using name changes to divert attention from pressing issues such as unemployment, inflation, and law and order. “Hospitals need doctors, schools need better education, and farmers need support. Instead of focusing on these, the government is obsessed with renaming cities,” he said.
Responding to Yadav’s criticism, BJP leaders defended the renaming policy, arguing that it is part of an effort to restore India’s cultural heritage. “We are correcting historical distortions and reviving the original identity of our great nation. The people of Uttar Pradesh support these decisions,” said BJP spokesperson Harish Chandra.
Political analysts believe that the renaming debate is likely to remain a major issue in the run-up to the 2025 state elections. “For the BJP, renaming places aligns with its broader cultural and nationalist agenda. For the opposition, it provides an opportunity to attack the government on governance issues,” said Dr. Ramesh Mishra, a political expert.
As election season heats up, Yadav’s remarks signal that the opposition will continue to challenge the BJP on its policies. Whether this strategy will resonate with voters remains to be seen, but the controversy over renaming places is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
Dhanya Reddy S
Alma Media School Student
