Uttar Pradesh's Jayaprakash Narayan International Centre, a museum dedicated to the memory of socialist leader Jayaprakash Narayan, has become the center of a new political controversy between Samajwadi Party's Akhilesh Yadav and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Yadav has accused the BJP of neglecting the museum and not giving it its due recognition, while the BJP has hit back, claiming that the museum has been fully funded and supported by their government. The heated exchanges between the two parties have sparked debates about the legacy of Narayan and the state of politics in Uttar Pradesh.
Clash Over Uttar Pradesh's Jayaprakash Narayan International Centre
Background
Jayaprakash Narayan International Centre (JPNIC) in Uttar Pradesh, India, is a museum dedicated to the memory of socialist leader Jayaprakash Narayan. Narayan, affectionately known as "Lok Nayak," played a prominent role in India's freedom struggle and the Sarvodaya movement.
Controversy
The museum has become a political battleground between the opposition Samajwadi Party (SP) led by Akhilesh Yadav and the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Yadav has alleged that the BJP has neglected the museum and failed to accord it due recognition. He has criticized the BJP government for reducing the budget allocated to the museum and for not including it in the list of heritage sites.
In response, the BJP has accused the SP of politicizing the issue and asserted that the museum has received adequate funding and support. The BJP-led Uttar Pradesh government has claimed that it has allocated Rs. 15 crore for the renovation and upkeep of the museum.
Legacy of Jayaprakash Narayan
Jayaprakash Narayan was a renowned socialist leader and freedom fighter who played a crucial role in shaping India's political landscape. He advocated for non-violent resistance and was known for his efforts to promote social justice and equality.
Political Context
The controversy over JPNIC reflects the ongoing political rivalry between the SP and BJP in Uttar Pradesh. The state is set to hold assembly elections in 2022, and both parties are vying for electoral support. The SP is seeking to capitalize on the legacy of Narayan, who has a strong following in the state, while the BJP is aiming to consolidate its position by highlighting its alleged support for the museum.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Who established the Jayaprakash Narayan International Centre?
The center was established in 1998 by the Samajwadi Party government led by Mulayam Singh Yadav.
2. What is the current funding situation of the museum?
The Uttar Pradesh government has allocated Rs. 15 crore for the renovation and upkeep of the museum.
3. Why has the museum become a political controversy?
Akhilesh Yadav has accused the BJP of neglecting the museum, while the BJP has claimed that it is providing adequate support.
4. What is the legacy of Jayaprakash Narayan?
Jayaprakash Narayan was a prominent socialist leader and freedom fighter who advocated for non-violence and social justice.
5. How is the controversy affecting the upcoming assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh?
The controversy is reflecting the political rivalry between the Samajwadi Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party, who are both seeking electoral support ahead of the elections.
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