Akhilesh Yadav Slams UP Government over Sultanpur Encounter

Akhilesh Yadav criticizes Uttar Pradesh government for the encounter killing of a robbery suspect, calling it a conspiracy against the state's future. The Special Task Force engaged in a firefight with suspects, killing one, while another escaped. Yadav alleges BJP's motive is fear of re-election loss.

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav launched a scathing attack on the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government over the controversial encounter of a suspect involved in the Sultanpur jewellery store robbery. He described the incident as 'condemnable' and part of a broader conspiracy to tarnish the state's future.

Yadav claimed that the prevalent use of encounters as a law enforcement tactic reflects the desperation of those in power. 'Weak people consider encounters their strength. Any fake encounter is an injustice. Tarnishing UP's image with violence and bloodshed is a big conspiracy against its future,' he stated. Yadav further alleged that the BJP government seeks to create a climate of fear to deter investment and ensure their political dominance.

Earlier, a suspect in the Sultanpur robbery, identified as Anuj Pratap Singh, was killed in a firefight with the Special Task Force in Unnao's Achalganj area, according to police. While Singh was initially taken for medical treatment, he was subsequently pronounced dead. Another suspect managed to escape, and legal proceedings are ongoing, said Unnao Assistant Superintendent of Police Akhilesh Singh.

(With inputs from agencies.)