Mayawati Criticizes Akhilesh Yadav Over Ayodhya Rape Accusations

Mayawati rebuked Akhilesh Yadav's call for DNA tests on Ayodhya rape case suspects, questioning prior actions taken under his government. She advocated for strict measures against the culprits, emphasizing crime control beyond political biases. Akhilesh and SP leaders shared their perspectives on the case.

Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati responded sharply to Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav's demand for DNA tests of the accused in the Ayodhya rape case, questioning how many such tests were conducted during his tenure. 'How many DNA tests have been done against such accused in their government?' she retorted.

She defended the Uttar Pradesh government's stringent actions against the accused, adding, 'The strict action being taken by the UP government against the accused in the Ayodhya gangrape case is justified. But what should be understood by SP saying that the DNA test of the accused should be done.' She urged the authorities to take stern steps against the culprits.

Mayawati highlighted the growing concerns over crime and women's safety in UP, pointing out the distressing incidents in Ayodhya and Lucknow. 'Amidst the growing concerns about crime control and law and order in UP, especially about women's safety and harassment, the incidents in Ayodhya and Lucknow etc. are extremely sad and worrying. It would be better if the government took strict steps to prevent these by rising above caste, community and politics,' she posted on X. Following the incident, Ayodhya administration demolished the bakery of SP leader Moeed Khan, the prime accused in the rape of a minor girl.

Earlier, Kannauj MP Akhilesh Yadav had posted on X, 'In the case of misdeeds, the way for justice should be found by getting DNA tests done of those who are accused, and not by merely making allegations and doing politics.' He added, 'Whoever is guilty should be given full punishment according to the law, but if the allegations are proved false after the DNA test, then the government officials involved should also not be spared. This is the demand of justice.'

SP MP from Faizabad, Awadesh Prasad, echoed Yadav's sentiments, telling ANI, 'As far as this incident is concerned, it is very painful and shameful. All the people involved in this incident should be investigated, the truth should be found out and whoever is guilty, action should be taken with full force against them.' He criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party for politicizing the issue, 'It is unfortunate that the Bharatiya Janata Party is doing politics on this. I humbly request such people that this is not a moment for politics.

(With inputs from agencies.)