Our goal to stop BJP from forming govt in UP, says Shivpal at Vikas Rath Yatra

SP supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav and brother Shivpal Yadav were present on the stage during the rally.

Lucknow: Clashes broke out between Samajwadi Party workers at the venue of UP Chief Minister ‘Vikas Rath Yatra’ on Thursday, even as the party attempted to put a show of unity after the infighting that had rocked it over the past few months.

Reports said that a few workers were injured in the scuffle.

Seen as a showdown or show of strength just two days ahead of another gala event to mark SP's silver jubilee, all eyes are on party patriarch Mulayam and Shivpal, the state unit chief, whose presence reflects that the feuding party members were ostensibly willing to cast aside their differences to put up a united front during the 2017 UP polls.

Speaking at the event, SP’s UP party chief Shivpal Yadav said, “I wish all the best to Akhilesh and congratulate him for the Vikas Rath Yatra.”

“Our goal is to prevent BJP from forming a government in UP,” Shivpal added.

Claiming that the party has united everyone in the state, from villages to cities, UP chief minister Akhilesh Yadav said, “Uttar Pradesh election is an election to change country's politics.”

The over 60-km yatra route from Lucknow to Unnao is dotted with hoardings, banners and colourful arches to welcome the chief minister.

The rath yatra will pass through the areas such as Lohia Path, Gomtinagar, Gomtinagar Extension and Kanpur Road, in the city. SChoola falling in the purview of the rally are shut.

(This story first appeared in Deccan Chronicle)