Yogi Adityanath slams SP over Pahalgam attack remarks, unveils development projects in Deoria

Deoria, U.P, April 29: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday strongly condemned recent remarks by Samajwadi Party (SP) leaders about the Pahalgam terrorist attack, calling them “shameful” and reminiscent of “Pakistani rhetoric.” Addressing a public meeting in Deoria, he criticised SP leaders for trivialising the killing of Shubham Dwivedi and for framing it as a “Hindu killing Hindu” incident. He accused both the SP and Congress of indulging in caste politics and appeasement, warning that such tactics threaten national security.

The Chief Minister was in Deoria to inaugurate 341 development projects and lay foundation stones for 160 others, worth a combined ₹676 crore. He described the region’s transformation since 2017, contrasting past lawlessness, disease, and neglect with current improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, and welfare delivery. Adityanath distributed benefits under various government schemes, including housing keys, tractors, land leases, and pension cheques. He honoured top-performing students and allocated ₹7.87 crore to self-help groups. “Deoria, once known for crime and encephalitis, is now recognised for expressways, railways, and rapid development,” he said.

Among major announcements was the opening of a four-storey degree college in Deoria, the first in the district to offer arts, science, and commerce together. A new college will also open in Pathardeva, and an auditorium is planned for Gauri Bazar.

Highlighting road upgrades, Adityanath said a four-lane highway is under construction from Deoria to Gorakhpur, enhancing connectivity to Delhi. Similar expansions are underway on the Deoria–Ballia and Deoria–Kasia–Padrauna routes. “The poor, the farmers, and the youth are at the centre of our governance,” he said, pledging to link 15 lakh underprivileged families with welfare schemes. “Poverty is not just an individual burden, it is a government responsibility.” Senior ministers and party leaders, including Surya Pratap Shahi and MP Shashank Mani Tripathi, were present at the event.