UP Cough Syrup Scandal: Akhilesh Yadav vs BJP Deputy CMs Over Probe and Allegations

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A bitter row erupted in Uttar Pradesh's politics as Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav clashed with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over the investigation into the codeine-based cough syrup racket. Yadav accused the BJP government of shielding those involved in the illegal trade and demanded a fair probe. He claimed that the racket, worth crores, was flourishing under the government's patronage and affecting the poor and children. In response, BJP Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak shared a photograph of Yadav with individuals linked to the cough syrup case, alleging that the SP chief was trying to evade accountability. Pathak vowed that the ongoing probe would establish facts and assured strict action against those found guilty. The controversy comes as the state government has set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the racket, which has exposed a network of major 'super-stockists' allegedly involved in diverting codeine-laced syrups. Three key accused have been arrested, and over 3.5 lakh bottles of cough syrup worth ₹4.5 crore have been seized. The Enforcement Directorate is conducting parallel investigations into financial transactions and money trails. The SP chief also questioned the probe, alleging that the Special Task Force (STF) was hand-in-glove with illegal traders. Yadav demanded the formation of a separate task force to ensure a fair investigation. The state government has clarified that no casualties have been reported in Uttar Pradesh due to codeine-laced syrups, but the controversy highlights the need for a thorough and unbiased probe into the cough syrup racket.