Controversy Erupts Over Poster Depicting Akhilesh Yadav Merged with Dr B R Ambedkar’s Image
A political storm broke out this week after an image of a controversial poster surfaced on social media, showing a morphed depiction of Dr B R Ambedkar — where half of his face was replaced with that of Samajwadi Party (SP) president Akhilesh Yadav.
Allegedly issued by SP’s Lohia Vahini wing, the poster sparked outrage across the political spectrum, drawing harsh criticism from Dalit groups and leaders of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Backlash and Reactions
The poster, perceived by many as a distortion of the image of the Constitution’s architect, was widely condemned. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati took veiled swipes at Akhilesh Yadav, while BJP leaders led demonstrations in protest.
The SP distanced itself from the poster, denying any official connection. Party chief spokesperson Rajendra Chowdhary stated, “This is not an official poster of the Samajwadi Party.
We are unaware of who created or circulated it. In today’s time, anyone can put up a poster. This might even be a ploy by BJP members.” He added that SP remains committed to protecting Ambedkar’s Constitution and is receiving significant public support in its efforts.
Legal Action Initiated
Taking serious note of the matter, Uttar Pradesh Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Commission chairman Baijnath Rawat has formally requested the Lucknow Police Commissioner to register a First Information Report (FIR) under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act against those responsible.
Rawat has also instructed that an action-taken report be submitted to the Commission by May 5 through a designated officer.
In a strongly worded statement, Rawat labeled the poster a “grave insult” to Dr Ambedkar and an affront to the sentiments of Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities.
He accused the SP of repeatedly disrespecting Ambedkar’s legacy and demanded a public apology from the party’s leadership.
BJP Protests Across Uttar Pradesh
In response to the controversy, BJP leaders and party workers held state-wide protests on Wednesday, demanding an apology from Akhilesh Yadav.
In Lucknow, a demonstration was organized near the Ambedkar statue at Hazratganj’s Atal Chowk. Among those present were Minister of State Vijay Laxmi Gautam, BJP state general secretary Govind Narayan Shukla, Rajya Sabha MP Brij Lal, MLC Lalji Prasad Nirmal, and several district-level leaders.
Senior BJP leaders issued statements denouncing the poster. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak called it evidence of SP’s “corrupt mindset” and a calculated insult to Ambedkar.
He also recalled previous incidents under SP rule — such as the removal of Ramabai Ambedkar’s name from a medical college and Kanpur Dehat district — as examples of the party’s indifference to Dalit icons.
Further Condemnation
Social Welfare and SC/ST Welfare Minister Asim Arun also lashed out at the SP, calling the hoarding a deliberate and repeated act of disrespect. “Equating Akhilesh Yadav with Dr Ambedkar is not only deeply offensive but also reflects a morally and legally corrupt mindset,” he said.
Arun criticized SP for its historical neglect of welfare schemes for Dalits and backward communities, claiming that during Akhilesh Yadav’s tenure as Chief Minister, many such initiatives were dismantled.
He further asserted that the people would not forget or forgive such a slight to Ambedkar’s memory, and warned that those responsible would face legal consequences.
