Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh | May 1, 2026
In a sharp political escalation, Akhilesh Yadav, chief of the Samajwadi Party, has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government of exploiting technology to “loot the public” through the implementation of prepaid smart electricity meters.
Yadav alleged that the introduction of smart meters in Uttar Pradesh is riddled with corruption, claiming that inflated billing and lack of transparency have burdened common citizens. “The misuse of technology in the name of prepaid meters has turned into a tool for systematic exploitation,” he said, intensifying his criticism of the ruling government
In a controversial remark that has triggered widespread debate, Yadav stated, “Today people are breaking smart meters after exposing the scam; tomorrow it could be EVMs,” referring to Electronic Voting Machines used in elections. The statement has drawn sharp reactions from BJP leaders, who termed it irresponsible and inflammatory.
The BJP hit back strongly, accusing the Samajwadi Party of misleading the public and attempting to undermine trust in democratic institutions. Party spokespersons defended the smart meter initiative, stating it is aimed at improving billing accuracy, reducing power theft, and enhancing efficiency in the electricity distribution system.
Meanwhile, the controversy has ignited political tensions across the state, with both parties engaging in a war of words ahead of upcoming electoral battles. Analysts believe such statements could further polarize voters, especially in rural and semi-urban regions where smart meter installations have faced resistance
. As the debate intensifies, the issue of technology, transparency, and public trust is emerging as a key political flashpoint in Uttar Pradesh, setting the stage for a heated confrontation between the ruling BJP and the opposition Samajwadi Party.
Comments
Sign in with Google to comment.