Yadav Praises Astronaut, Questions BJP Motives

Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav congratulated Group Captain Shubhashu Shukla, a Lucknow native and Indian Air Force officer, for becoming the first Indian astronaut to reach the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission, which concluded last month. Speaking at a press conference in Lucknow, Yadav hailed Shukla’s achievement as a monumental moment for India, emphasizing the astronaut’s dedication and rigorous training.

“This is a proud moment for the nation, for Shukla personally, and for his family,” Yadav said. “His journey to space showcases India’s growing capabilities in science and technology, achieved through years of hard work and preparation.”

Shukla, who returned to India from the US on August 17, arrived in Lucknow on Monday morning, his first visit to his hometown since the mission. The Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, organized a civic reception to honor the astronaut, who also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi on August 18. However, Yadav questioned the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership’s intentions, accusing them of attempting to take undue credit for Shukla’s success.

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“The Axiom-4 mission elevated India’s global prestige, utilizing resources from across the country,” Yadav remarked. “Yet, BJP leaders are quick to claim every achievement as their own, sidelining the collective effort.”

Yadav further critiqued the BJP’s priorities, pointing out their apparent preference for astrology over astronomy. “They focus on auspicious timings, favorable days, or even what colors to wear, rather than embracing the science of space exploration,” he said, questioning how leaders skeptical of astronomy could celebrate such missions.

Expressing interest in meeting Shukla, Yadav noted the astronaut’s busy schedule and protocol constraints. “I’ll request a meeting to discuss his experiences and insights about space,” he added.

In a cryptic remark, Yadav referenced the 2019 Pulwama attack, asking whether satellite imagery could provide clarity on the incident’s details, though he did not elaborate further.

Shukla’s mission marks a milestone for India’s space ambitions, with the astronaut undergoing extensive training with NASA and Axiom Space. His journey to the ISS included conducting scientific experiments, contributing to global research efforts. Yadav’s comments highlight the ongoing political rivalry in Uttar Pradesh, with the SP chief using Shukla’s achievement to underscore broader critiques of the ruling BJP.

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