BJP fears creative expression as it will strengthen ‘anti-establishment wave’, says Akhilesh
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav has criticized the BJP for allegedly exploiting vulnerable artistes for political gain. He claims the BJP suppresses creative expression because it fears the growth of an anti-establishment sentiment.
Why it matters
This highlights the ongoing tension between political parties in India regarding the use of cultural symbols and the freedom of artistic expression in political campaigning.
Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav on Sunday (August 2, 2026) accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of misusing the talent of helpless and vulnerable artistes to further its own political interests. The BJP fears expression of creativity as it will further strengthen the “anti-establishment wave”, Mr. Yadav said after making an “offering” of ₹51,000 each to two Ramlila artistes, who play Lord Ram and Lord Hanuman. The BJP stands for “ bhrasht ” (corrupt), “ julm ” (oppression), and “ paap ” (sin), the Opposition leader said. All major problems in Uttar Pradesh would end only after the BJP was voted out of power, he said.
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