Mahadangal: Akhilesh Slams CM Yogi Over Bareilly Riot, 'Force Is a Sign of Weak Governance' | ABP NEWS

Tensions flared in Uttar Pradesh following violent clashes in Bareilly, sparking a political blame game. Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav criticized the Yogi Adityanath-led BJP government, stating that "the use of force is a sign of a weak government" and that governance should be based on harmony, not lathis (batons). Responding strongly, BJP spokesperson Rajesh Chaudhary defended the government’s crackdown, asserting, “Those who don’t understand language must be treated in their own language,” referring to police action as a necessary "treatment" for rioters. The flashpoint was inflammatory statements by cleric Maulana Tauqeer Raza, who allegedly incited communal sentiments. Critics questioned why the government waited to act despite repeated provocations. Meanwhile, CM Yogi warned rioters with a stern message: “The lesson taught will echo for generations.” However, opposition leaders and civil society members slammed the administration for alleged bias, accusing the government of targeting a specific community and using law enforcement as a political tool. Concerns were raised over failure to impose preventive measures like Section 144 and the repeated use of bulldozers and police force. The incident has once again reignited the debate over religious freedom, law enforcement, and political polarization in India’s most populous state.