Akhilesh Yadav Calls for Excavation at UP CM’s Residence Over Alleged ‘Shivling’

The Samajwadi Party chief's remarks follow BJP-backed excavation efforts in Sambhal, which have sparked political and local tensions.

Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav claimed there is a 'shivling' beneath Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's official residence in Lucknow, calling for excavation at the site.
Yadav criticized the BJP government for using excavations, such as those in Sambhal, to divert attention from governance issues and alleged public destruction under the guise of development.
BJP spokespersons dismissed Yadav’s remarks, accusing him of undermining religious sentiments for political gain and highlighting his past excavation efforts for gold in 2013.
The ongoing excavations in Sambhal, including the unearthing of a historic stepwell near a Mughal-era mosque, have led to violence, arrests, and heightened tensions in the region.
Yadav also used the platform to advocate for ballot paper voting over electronic voting machines, citing trust issues and referencing Germany’s electoral practices.