Responding to the summons issued by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav stated that he is ready to cooperate with the investigation related to the illegal mining case, said sources. Yadav expressed his willingness to participate in the investigation, suggesting that it could be conducted in Lucknow. He also indicated the possibility of joining the proceedings via video conferencing. According to a senior party leader and close associate of Akhilesh Yadav, the party's office is already bustling with several meetings regarding preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, making it unlikely for Akhilesh Yadav to travel to Delhi tomorrow.
Party commitments take precedence
Sources revealed that Yadav's agenda for the day includes attending a crucial meeting of the PDA (Picchda, Dalit, and Alpsankhyak) at the party headquarters in Lucknow. As per the party spokesperson, there are no plans for Yadav to travel elsewhere.
Confirmation from party spokesperson
Speaking to PTI, Samajwadi Party spokesperson Rajendra Chowdhury affirmed Yadav's commitment to the scheduled meeting in Lucknow. He dismissed any possibility of Yadav traveling to Delhi for the CBI inquiry.
"Akhileshji will attend a meeting of the PDA at the party office today." "He is not going anywhere. He will be attending a meeting in Lucknow," Rajendra Chowdhury said.
Yadav's status in the investigation
Officials clarified that Yadav is summoned as a witness, not as an accused, in the illegal mining cases dating back to his tenure as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh.
Background of the case
The cases under investigation revolved around alleged irregularities in the issuance of mining leases during 2012–16, with accusations of permitting illegal mining activities despite a ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal.
Yadav's response to the notice
Reacting to the notice issued by the CBI, Yadav criticised the BJP, suggesting political motives behind the timing of the inquiry. He implied that such notices tend to coincide with election periods, questioning the BJP's motives and performance.
Ongoing political tensions
Yadav's remarks hinted at ongoing political tensions between the Samajwadi Party and the ruling BJP, with accusations and counter-accusations a common feature in the run-up to elections.
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