CM Yogi Launches Sharp Attack on Opposition Over Cough Syrup Case: ‘Two Examples in the Country – One in Delhi, One in Lucknow’

Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh: The political heat in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly escalated during a debate on the codeine cough syrup case, as Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath delivered a scathing response to opposition charges. The controversy erupted after Samajwadi Party MLA Atul Pradhan raised questions about the government’s alleged inaction and the role of officials in the case, asking why the government’s much-publicized “bulldozer” had not acted against those involved.

CM Yogi’s Strong Rebuttal
Standing in the Assembly, CM Yogi sharply countered the opposition, saying, “What is the question? What issues are being raised? The opposition has raised the matter, and you are amplifying it. This is like a thief blaming others.” Without naming anyone, he remarked, “There are two examples in the country – one sitting in Delhi and the other in Lucknow. Both raise issues improperly and then run away.” His remarks triggered a strong reaction in the Assembly.

Codeine Cough Syrup Deaths Denied
The Chief Minister clarified that there is no evidence linking fake medicines or codeine cough syrup to any deaths in the state. He emphasized that raids and investigations are ongoing under the supervision of the Drugs Department. CM Yogi criticized the opposition for spreading “decorative lies” and urged them to adopt honesty in their statements.

Strict Legal Action Under NDPS Act
He further stated that strict action under the NDPS Act will be taken against anyone found guilty in this case. CM Yogi pointed out that one accused had received a license during the Samajwadi Party government in 2016, implying that the roots of the problem lie elsewhere.

Broader Context of the Case
The CM noted that a related incident involved syrup manufactured in Tamil Nadu. He criticized some individuals for misusing substances despite prohibition laws in Uttar Pradesh. According to CM Yogi, opposition members remain focused on theatrics rather than substantive issues.

Action Taken So Far
CM Yogi informed the Assembly that 79 cases have been registered, naming 225 individuals, with 78 arrests made and 134 locations raided. He claimed that further investigation could reveal links to individuals associated with the Samajwadi Party, citing financial transactions traced to an official of the Lohia Vahini.

Opposition Walks Out
Following the CM’s aggressive response, the Assembly saw heightened commotion. Leader of Opposition Mata Prasad Pandey argued that the Samajwadi Party was being targeted, prompting Assembly Speaker Satish Mahana to state that the CM did not name anyone directly. Nevertheless, the opposition staged a walkout in protest against the Chief Minister’s remarks and the handling of the matter.