Lucknow | 28 March 2026

A political exchange unfolded in Uttar Pradesh following the inauguration of the Noida International Airport, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised previous administrations while Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav responded with a sharp rebuttal. The development has added a political dimension to what was otherwise a major infrastructure milestone for the state.

Addressing the gathering at the event, the Prime Minister highlighted the expansion of aviation infrastructure in Uttar Pradesh, stating that the state now has the highest number of airports in the country. He also took aim at the previous Samajwadi Party government, alleging that Noida was earlier treated as a “source of exploitation,” and claimed that under the current administration it has emerged as a key driver of development.

Responding to these remarks, Akhilesh Yadav took to social media, stating that as a guest in the state, the Prime Minister would be accorded due respect. However, he added that political statements made during such occasions should be viewed in context, suggesting that strong remarks often emerge when electoral challenges are perceived. His response maintained a measured tone while indirectly criticising the Prime Minister’s comments.

The Prime Minister also referred to past perceptions surrounding visits to Noida, claiming that earlier leaders avoided the region due to superstition and political concerns. He stated that despite such apprehensions, he chose to visit the area and expressed confidence in its future potential. The exchange reflects ongoing political rivalry in the state, even as large-scale infrastructure projects continue to shape its development narrative.

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A political exchange unfolded in Uttar Pradesh following the inauguration of the Noida International Airport, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticised previous administrations while Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav responded with a sharp rebuttal. The development has added a political dimension to what was otherwise a major infrastructure milestone for the state.

Addressing the gathering at the event, the Prime Minister highlighted the expansion of aviation infrastructure in Uttar Pradesh, stating that the state now has the highest number of airports in the country. He also took aim at the previous Samajwadi Party government, alleging that Noida was earlier treated as a “source of exploitation,” and claimed that under the current administration it has emerged as a key driver of development.

Responding to these remarks, Akhilesh Yadav took to social media, stating that as a guest in the state, the Prime Minister would be accorded due respect. However, he added that political statements made during such occasions should be viewed in context, suggesting that strong remarks often emerge when electoral challenges are perceived. His response maintained a measured tone while indirectly criticising the Prime Minister’s comments.

The Prime Minister also referred to past perceptions surrounding visits to Noida, claiming that earlier leaders avoided the region due to superstition and political concerns. He stated that despite such apprehensions, he chose to visit the area and expressed confidence in its future potential. The exchange reflects ongoing political rivalry in the state, even as large-scale infrastructure projects continue to shape its development narrative.