The much-vaunted ‘kaam bolta hai’ (work speaks) slogan of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav is facing a litmus test in the battle of ballots in the state capital, the crucible of his dream projects.
Akhilesh has used the development card to the hilt during his campaign across the state, often highlighting his work in and around Lucknow, the city of Nawabs.
Doing away with traditional Samajwadi Party politics hinged on caste equations and dependence on “M-Y” (Muslim- Yadav) factor, the 43-year-old chief minister decided to test his popularity riding on the crest of development, his new found mantra to retain power.
It is but natural for him to sell his pet projects – Lucknow Metro, Gomti riverfront and Janeshwar Misra Park – to woo the electorate.
He has also been highlighting the Agra-Lucknow Expressway, establishing state-of-the-art hospital in the capital and facilities to give employment to local youth.
