By Mohammad Tarique Saleem
Uttar Pradesh is India’s most populous state, and the leadership of its Chief Ministers has always significantly impacted its socio-economic and political landscape. Among the notable leaders, Akhilesh Yadav and Yogi Adityanath stand out for their contrasting governance styles and policies. Akhilesh Yadav, the former Chief Minister (2012–2017), is often regarded as a progressive leader focused on inclusive development, while Yogi Adityanath, the current Chief Minister since 2017, has been criticized for prioritizing polarizing politics over holistic growth.
Akhilesh Yadav: A Visionary for Modern Development : As the youngest Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Akhilesh Yadav brought a fresh and modern perspective to governance. His tenure marked significant achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and social welfare. He spearheaded the construction of the Agra-Lucknow Expressway, one of India’s longest access-controlled expressways, which boosted connectivity and economic activity.
He also initiated the Lucknow Metro project, making the capital city a hub of modern transport. His government distributed free laptops to meritorious students, promoting digital literacy among the youth. The Skill Development Mission aimed at creating job opportunities for the state’s massive workforce, making strides in reducing unemployment.
Akhilesh’s administration improved public healthcare by launching projects like the 108 Ambulance Service and establishing specialized medical institutions. From rural electrification projects to urban beautification in cities like Lucknow, his policies focused on bridging the gap between rural and urban areas. Programs such as the Samajwadi Pension Scheme provided financial support to marginalized communities, showcasing his commitment to inclusive growth irrespective of caste, creed, or religion.
Yogi Adityanath: Polarizing Politics Over Development? Yogi Adityanath’s tenure has been marked by his focus on law and order and a strong emphasis on Hindutva ideology. While he has made efforts to attract investment and industrialization, critics argue that these have been overshadowed by divisive policies that deepen communal rifts.
The “anti-Romeo squads” and encounters targeting criminals have brought mixed reactions, with some praising the crackdown and others decrying alleged human rights violations. Yogi’s administration has often been accused of promoting Hindu-Muslim polarization, with initiatives like renaming cities (e.g., Allahabad to Prayagraj) and anti-conversion laws. Critics argue these actions divert attention from pressing developmental issues.
The Gorakhpur tragedy of 2017, where over 60 children died due to oxygen shortages in a hospital, highlighted the state’s faltering healthcare system under his leadership. Despite claims of industrial growth, unemployment rates in Uttar Pradesh remain high. Many infrastructure projects initiated during Akhilesh’s tenure have seen delays or lackluster progress.
While both leaders have left their imprint on Uttar Pradesh, Akhilesh Yadav’s tenure is widely regarded as more development-oriented and inclusive. His focus on modernization, social welfare, and infrastructure set a benchmark for governance. In contrast, Yogi Adityanath’s tenure has often been criticized for prioritizing communal politics over genuine developmental needs. For a diverse state like Uttar Pradesh, where unity and progress are essential, Akhilesh Yadav’s approach to leadership emerges as a more effective model for long-term growth and harmony.
