Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav has sharply criticized Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for his recent remarks on SP’s distinctive red caps. During a rally in Kannauj, Yadav responded to Adityanath’s comments, which labeled the red caps as symbols of “black deeds,” by emphasizing the positive symbolism associated with the color red.

“Red is the color of emotions and symbolizes the Goddess Durga,” Yadav stated, defending the red caps that have become synonymous with his party. He also took a personal jab at Adityanath, saying, “They are abusing our cap, yet our behavior is so good. At least we have full hair, so we are wearing a cap. Those who do not have hair should also wear a cap.”

This exchange follows Adityanath’s previous accusations against the Samajwadi Party, alleging a history filled with wrongdoing. Yadav dismissed these claims, suggesting that Adityanath’s comments were a result of his inability to accept the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) electoral setbacks in Uttar Pradesh. “He could not bear the shock of defeat, which is why he is making such statements,” Yadav remarked.

Yadav also criticized Adityanath’s comments on international issues, particularly regarding Bangladesh, suggesting they were an attempt to provoke unrest. “If he has concerns about foreign matters, he should address them with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the External Affairs Minister,” Yadav suggested, underscoring his belief that domestic issues should take precedence in political discourse.

Additionally, Yadav reiterated his call for a caste-based census, emphasizing the need for an accurate count to reflect the aspirations of backward communities, Dalits, and minorities, collectively referred to as the PDA (Pichda, Dalit, and Alpashankhyak) family. “Caste census means caste census,” he stated, warning the BJP against any manipulation of the issue.