Political tensions in Uttar Pradesh have escalated following reports of Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav’s scheduled visit to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya on December 12. Maulana Sajid Rashidi, President of the All India Imam Association, made controversial remarks targeting the former Chief Minister, calling such political figures “fake Hindus.” Questioning the timing of the planned temple visit, Maulana Rashidi linked it directly to the upcoming 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections. He claimed that despite multiple prior visits to Ayodhya, the SP leader had avoided visiting the Ram Temple until political considerations took precedence. Referring to previous campaign slogans associated with the party about bringing Lord Krishna to power, Rashidi questioned the political invoking and commodification of revered deities, further alleging that Yadav acts out of political expediency rather than personal faith. The Ayodhya Schedule The announcement regarding the visit was made by senior Samajwadi Party leader Pawan Pandey. According to Pandey, Akhilesh Yadav is scheduled to visit Ayodhya with his family on December 12. The itinerary includes offering prayers at the Hanumangarhi temple, seeking blessings from prominent local seers and saints, and performing rituals before Ram Lalla at the Ram Temple. Political Reactions The proposed visit has sparked sharp criticism across the political spectrum. Taking a veiled swipe at the SP chief without directly naming him, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath remarked that even those who once questioned the existence of Lord Ram are now lining up to seek blessings. Post navigation Centenary Milestone: Bharat Ratna LK Advani Enters His 100th Year
