North India Statesman
he ongoing Uttar Pradesh Legislative Council (MLC) elections were hit by immense political controversy after Samajwadi Party (SP) candidate Dr. Akash Agrawal broke down in tears on camera, making sensational allegations of administrative harassment and voting irregularities. Agrawal, who is contesting the Khand Shikshak (Teachers’) constituency from Agra, stated that he felt treated “like a terrorist from Pakistan” and announced his decision to renounce Sanatan Dharma and convert his religion next month at the Shahi Eidgah in Lucknow.
Sensational Allegations Of Booth Capturing And Harassment
Interacting with media personnel after meeting the Agra Divisional Commissioner, Dr. Akash Agrawal alleged widespread booth capturing and polling misconduct across key centers, including Khairagadh and Chhata. He alleged that at booth number 20 in Khairagadh, a presiding officer made voters leave the room under the guise of eating lunch while polling rules were severely violated. He further accused ruling party representatives of capturing booths and stated that police personnel were harassing school managers, supporters, and his family across 12 districts.
“Felt Like A Terrorist”: The Emotional Breakdown On Camera
Wiping away tears, the SP leader expressed deep distress over the alleged political pressure, stating that officers were operating as “puppets” of the state government. “I feel as though I am a terrorist who came from Pakistan,” Agrawal said emotionally, adding that he feared authorities might falsely plant drugs or weapons on him to lock him away. He emphasized that he had no greed for power or becoming an MLC and urged authorities to stop intimidating school managers and teachers associated with him across the region.
Plan To Change Faith In Lucknow Sparks Political Storm
Explaining his decision regarding faith, Akash Agrawal stated that he no longer wishes to stay in a system where he faces harassment simply for standing up for teachers’ rights. ” हार-जीत से मुझे कोई फर्क नहीं पड़ता… Next month I will go to Lucknow’s Shahi Eidgah to change my faith,” he asserted, adding that he is also considering Buddhism after discussing with his family and supporters. The dramatic event has triggered sharp political reactions across Lucknow, Agra, and Western Uttar Pradesh, with political parties trading fierce accusations over the integrity of the voting process.
