CM Adityanath condemns SP’s online remarks, urges review of party’s social media conduct

Uttar Pradesh CM criticizes SP for derogatory remarks, sparking political rivalry on social media platforms.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday (may 19, 2025) strongly criticised the Samajwadi Party (SP) over derogatory remarks allegedly made on its official social media handles targeting Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, asserting that while expecting ideal behaviour from the SP may be futile, civil society cannot condone “indecent and vulgar” statements.

“It may be futile to expect ideal conduct from the Samajwadi Party, but a civilised society cannot tolerate their indecent and vulgar statements,” Mr. Adityanath posted on social media platform X. “The top leadership of the Samajwadi Party should thoroughly review its social media handles and ensure that the language used is decent, restrained and dignified,” he added.

The controversy erupted on May 16 after derogatory content allegedly targeting Mr. Pathak appeared on SP’s digital platforms. In response, the BJP filed a First Information Report and party workers staged a large protest in Lucknow on May 17, demanding strict action against those responsible for managing the SP’s social media accounts.

Amid mounting pressure, SP president Akhilesh Yadav issued a statement calling for moderation on both sides. “We will explain to our people, but you should also keep restraint on your language,” he said, in a counter to the BJP.

The episode marks the latest flashpoint in the ongoing political rivalry between the two major parties in Uttar Pradesh, with digital platforms increasingly becoming the battleground for sharp and often polarising exchanges.