Overview

• Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav accused the BJP of prioritizing cowsheds over development projects, framing it as a choice between 'foul smell' and 'fragrance.'
• Yadav alleged corruption in BJP's stray cattle management efforts, claiming funds meant for capturing stray bulls were being misused.
• Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya responded sharply, accusing Yadav of being disconnected from rural roots and society.
• The BJP defended its cow protection policies, citing cultural and religious significance, and criticized Yadav for allegedly disrespecting Hindu-Sanatan culture.
• The controversy reflects deeper political and cultural divides in Uttar Pradesh, intensified by the BJP's reduced performance in the 2024 elections and the SP's efforts to highlight governance issues.