Akhilesh Yadav is a prominent Indian politician and the National President of the Samajwadi Party (SP). He served as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh from 2012 to 2017, becoming one of the youngest leaders to hold the state’s top executive office. Known for his focus on development, infrastructure, and social justice politics, Akhilesh Yadav remains a key figure in Uttar Pradesh and national politics.
Born on 1 July 1973, Akhilesh Yadav is the son of veteran socialist leader Mulayam Singh Yadav, the founder of the Samajwadi Party and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. Educated in India and abroad, Akhilesh holds a degree in Environmental Engineering, a background that influenced his emphasis on modern infrastructure and urban development during his tenure as CM.
Political Career
Akhilesh Yadav began his political career as a Member of Parliament from Kannauj in 2000. Over the years, he emerged as the face of generational change within the Samajwadi Party, appealing especially to youth, students, and urban voters. In 2012, he led the SP to a decisive victory in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections and was sworn in as Chief Minister.
Tenure as Chief Minister
During his tenure, Akhilesh Yadav launched several high-profile projects aimed at modernization, including:
Lucknow Metro
Agra–Lucknow Expressway
Expansion of ambulance services (108 & 102)
Laptop distribution schemes for students
Urban road and infrastructure upgrades
His government emphasized connectivity, public transport, education support, and healthcare services. However, his tenure also faced criticism over law-and-order issues and political infighting within the party.
Role as Opposition Leader
After 2017, Akhilesh Yadav took on a stronger role as the principal opposition voice in Uttar Pradesh. As Samajwadi Party chief, he has frequently raised issues related to:
Farmers’ welfare
Unemployment
Price rise
Demolitions and urban redevelopment policies
Social harmony and constitutional values
He has been vocal in criticising the BJP-led government in Uttar Pradesh, including on development projects in cities like Varanasi, arguing for greater public consultation and rehabilitation measures.
Current Political Standing
Akhilesh Yadav continues to play a crucial role in shaping opposition politics in Uttar Pradesh. Under his leadership, the Samajwadi Party has focused on alliance-based politics and strengthening its base among youth, backward classes, minorities, and farmers.
Summary
Akhilesh Yadav is widely seen as a modern yet socialist leader, blending development-centric politics with social justice narratives. As Uttar Pradesh remains central to India’s political future, his role as an opposition leader keeps him at the forefront of major political debates.