Akhilesh Yadav skips ‘Saifai Mahotsava’, sparks speculation

As the annual ‘Saifai Mahotsava’ began with much fanfare Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav was conspicuous by his absence on the inaugural day triggering speculation he might be “upset” with expulsion of two of his close aides from the party.

While there was no official word from the ruling Samajwadi Party or the government as to why the Chief Minister skipped the inaugural session on Saturday, the party sources said he was “upset” over sacking on Friday of his two close aides - Sunil Yadav alias Sajan and Anand Bhadauria. Sajan was national president of SP Chhatrasabha, while Bhadauria was former national president of Lohia Vahini.

Another SP leader Subodh Yadav, son of the party’s MLA from Etah Rameshwar Yadav, was also expelled - all three on the charges of “anti-party” activities. The 17-day annual family fiesta, being held for the last 18 years at the native place of Samajwadi Party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav, is likely to see performances by singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, ghazal singer Peenaz Masani and several Bollywood stars. All members of the Yadav family usually attend the inaugural session of the Mahotsav. Last year too, Akhilesh was present, along with MP wife Dimple and their children.

The festivities were inaugurated on Saturday, as per tradition by the SP supremo, with brother and cousin Shivpal and Ram Gopal in tow.