Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has alleged that Uttar Pradesh is not free from mafia influence, as claimed by the state government. He argued that while smaller groups have been weakened, they have instead merged together to form what he described as a “mega-mafia.”

Speaking to the media, Yadav said that the government’s repeated claims of eliminating criminal networks are misleading. According to him, the current situation has only reshaped these groups into larger, more powerful entities. He added that such a situation is a threat to both governance and public safety.

Yadav further criticized the ruling party, saying that it is using the term “mafia-free” as a political slogan without addressing the ground realities. He pointed out that ordinary people continue to face issues of crime and intimidation in many parts of the state.

The Samajwadi Party leader urged citizens to question the government’s promises and hold it accountable for the law-and-order situation.

The Uttar Pradesh government has not yet responded to Yadav’s remarks.