Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav has sparked a fresh political controversy with his remarks comparing the BJP’s focus on cowsheds to his party’s emphasis on perfume parks. His statement has drawn sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has accused him of insulting Hindu beliefs and traditions.
While addressing reporters, Akhilesh Yadav mocked the BJP’s initiatives, claiming that the ruling party prefers foul smells because it focuses on building cowsheds, whereas the SP prioritizes fragrance and development.
He said, “These people (the BJP) like stench; that’s why they are building cowsheds. We are Samajwadis; we want development and are fond of fragrance; that’s why we were building a perfume park.“
He further alleged that the government is not effectively managing stray cattle, questioning whether it was catching bulls or misusing funds allocated for the purpose.
The BJP reacted strongly, condemning Yadav’s remarks as an insult to Hindu sentiments.
BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla took to social media, stating, “After insulting Rana Sangha, now SP & Akhilesh Yadav insult Hindu Astha (faith) and say, ‘Cows and cowsheds spread foul smell, that’s why we make perfume parks.’ Shri Krishna himself is called ‘Gopal’ one who had divine love for cows and their protection and care. Shameful how low one can go for vote bank appeasement.“
BJP MP Dinesh Sharma also criticized Akhilesh Yadav, stating that the perfume park project was linked to corruption.
He remarked, “Along with the construction of the perfume park, a perfume scam has also taken place. Why are you looking for smell in a cowshed? Look for the Sanatan faith in a cowshed.”
Akhilesh Yadav’s cowshed vs perfume park remark potrays his lack of respect for the Indian culture and the level to which the Samajwadi Party can go in persuit of ensuring the muslim vote bank which have been their loyal voterbase.
