Deputy CM Keshav Maurya had made the statement during a Chaupal organized in Usarna village of Bakshi Talab block, Lucknow, on Saturday as part of programs marking the completion of 150 years of Vande Mataram. Speaking to locals, he urged citizens to report any officer or employee soliciting bribes and assured that stringent action, including imprisonment, would be taken against corrupt officials. The clipping of his statement was widely circulated on social media, prompting Shyam Prakash’s sarcastic remark.
Shyam Prakash, a three-time MLA first elected in 2007 on a BSP ticket and later winning on BJP tickets in 2017 and 2022, is known for making bold and controversial statements, often targeting his own party. In the past, his remarks on corruption and other issues have sparked public attention, including a controversial social media post in 2020 that led to a notice against him, which he later dismissed humorously.
The ongoing spat highlights tensions within the BJP’s state leadership, particularly as corruption and administrative efficiency remain key public concerns in Uttar Pradesh. While Deputy CM Maurya has emphasized transparency and citizen participation in reporting bribery, critics like Shyam Prakash point to systemic challenges that make full implementation difficult.
Political analysts suggest such remarks may fuel internal party debates ahead of upcoming elections, reflecting both public expectations for accountability and the challenges of enforcing anti-corruption measures. Meanwhile, Keshav Maurya continues to promote government schemes and anti-bribery initiatives across the state.
This exchange underscores the delicate balance between party unity and public accountability as Uttar Pradesh prepares for heightened political activity in the coming months.
