Yogi Displays Akhilesh’s Photo in UP Assembly, Questions Links to Codeine Syrup Accused

Lucknow: A heated political confrontation unfolded in the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Monday as Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a sharp attack on the opposition during a discussion under Rule 56 on the illegal diversion of codeine-based cough syrup.

Responding aggressively to allegations raised by opposition members, CM Yogi stated that the government had already clarified the issue earlier, but was fully prepared to give a detailed response in the interest of the House. He categorically asserted that codeine-based cough syrup is not manufactured in Uttar Pradesh, and that all cases detected in the state involve illegal diversion from outside Uttar Pradesh.

Photo of Akhilesh Displayed in the House

Escalating the political heat, CM Yogi displayed a photograph of Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav in the Assembly and questioned his alleged links with individuals accused in the cough syrup racket. He alleged that SP leader Amit Yadav had connections with Shubham Jaiswal, described as one of the biggest stockists involved in the illegal trade of codeine syrup in Uttar Pradesh.

The Chief Minister claimed that financial transactions between Shubham Jaiswal, his wife, and Amit Yadav had surfaced during investigations. He further alleged that Amit Yadav, a member of the Samajwadi Yuvjan Sabha and a former SP candidate from Varanasi, had also traveled to Dubai with the accused.

CM Yogi also named Vibhor Rana, calling him an SP affiliate, and stated that a photograph showing him with Akhilesh Yadav was presented on the floor of the House. “You must listen to the truth first. Only then will you realize why it feels bitter,” the Chief Minister remarked.

Strict Action, No Deaths in UP

CM Yogi emphasized that no deaths linked to codeine syrup consumption have been reported in Uttar Pradesh. He pointed out that fatalities reported in other states were traced to syrups containing toxic impurities such as diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol, not linked to UP-based production.

He underlined that his government had dismissed officials found complicit and brought the entire issue to light, questioning why opposition leaders appeared defensive instead of supportive of the crackdown.

Massive Crackdown Under NDPS Act

Detailing the government’s action, CM Yogi informed the House that:

• Raids were conducted on 332 wholesale drug establishments
• 136 firms have been booked under the NDPS Act
• 77 accused have been arrested so far
• Offences under the NDPS Act carry 10 to 20 years of imprisonment

He added that the crackdown began with action by the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) in Kanpur, and over 1,000 cough syrup samples have been collected across the state for testing. Strict action has been taken for illegal storage, unauthorized transportation, and failure to maintain records.

Political Nexus Under Scanner

Naming several firms and stockists on the Assembly floor, CM Yogi alleged that investigations have revealed political links behind the illegal network, asserting that documentary evidence exists. He clarified that the government’s action is based solely on law and public interest, not political considerations.

The Chief Minister announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) comprising senior officials from UP Police, law and order, and FSDA to monitor the entire case.

‘No One Will Be Spared’

Concluding his address, CM Yogi issued a stern warning:
“Whoever is guilty—no matter their political or social influence—will not be spared. Uttar Pradesh has shown repeatedly how action against mafias is taken, and it will continue to do so.”

Taking a sharp dig at the Samajwadi Party, he added, “You know this very well. This time, there won’t even be time left to offer prayers.”