Keshav Prasad Maurya criticizes Samajwadi Party over Ayodhya gang rape case

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya has strongly criticized the Samajwadi Party (SP) for demanding a DNA test of Moeed Khan, an SP leader accused in the Ayodhya gang rape case. Maurya accused the SP of consistently protecting rapists, particularly if they are Muslim.In a post on X, Maurya stated, "It is the innate nature of SP to save rapists. If the rapist is a Muslim, then the entire 'Saifai' family puts its weight behind saving him. SP will be wiped out."

Akhilesh Yadav responds

Echoing Faizabad MP Awadhesh Prasad's call for a DNA test to ensure justice for the minor victim, SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav emphasized the importance of DNA testing to establish the truth and deliver justice. He posted on X, "In the case of misdeeds, the way for justice should be found by getting DNA tests done on those who are accused, and not by merely making allegations and doing politics. Whoever is guilty should be given full punishment according to the law, but if the allegations are proven false after the DNA test, then the government officials involved should also not be spared. This is the demand for justice."

Demolition of bakery

In response to the incident, the Ayodhya administration demolished the bakery owned by Moeed Khan, the main accused in the gang rape case, further escalating the controversy.

Mayawati criticises

Bahujan Samaj Party Chief Mayawati also criticized the Samajwadi Party's demand for a DNA test, questioning the number of such tests conducted during SP's tenure. She expressed her views on X, stating, "The strict action being taken by the UP government against the accused in the Ayodhya gangrape case is justified, but what should be understood by SP saying that the DNA test of the accused should be done. Whereas SP should also tell how many DNA tests have been done against such accused in their government."

Awadhesh Prasad's reaction

Reacting to the incident, Faizabad (Ayodhya) MP Awadhesh Prasad emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and called for the truth to be uncovered. He stated, "As far as this incident is concerned, it is very painful and shameful. All the people involved in this incident should be investigated, the truth should be found out and whoever is guilty, action should be taken with full force against them. And as far as the victim is concerned, our party completely stands with the victim. It is unfortunate that the Bharatiya Janata Party is doing politics on this. I humbly request such people that this is not a moment for politics."

Prasad also called for financial assistance for the victim, adding, "Innocents should not be framed and DNA tests should be conducted. She (the victim) should be helped financially as well."