A fresh political controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh after posters inspired by the Bollywood film Dhurandhar surfaced in Lucknow and Amethi, targeting Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav while praising Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Posters Appear Across Key Locations
The posters were spotted outside Amethi railway station and at major intersections in Lucknow. One of the slogans read: “Aap ko kya chahiye? Akhilesh ka Lyari raj”, directly attacking Akhilesh Yadav.
Another poster described Yogi Adityanath as “Dhurandhar CM,” projecting him as a strong leader. The messaging has drawn attention for its aggressive tone and cinematic style inspired by Dhurandhar.
‘Lyari’ Reference Sparks Debate
The posters reference Lyari, a locality in Karachi, Pakistan, once known for gang violence. The same reference was used in the film Dhurandhar, making the campaign more dramatic and symbolic.
By linking Akhilesh Yadav’s tenure to “Lyari raj,” the posters attempt to draw parallels with law-and-order issues during his government.
Group Behind Campaign Claims Awareness Drive
The hoardings were put up by a group calling itself “Youth Against Mafia.” Its general secretary Abhinav Tiwari stated that the campaign aims to inform younger voters about past law-and-order situations in Uttar Pradesh.
He said the posters highlight incidents like the Muzaffarnagar and Shamli riots and compare them with the current government’s crackdown on crime. The group also claimed it is a student organisation with no links to any political party.
Samajwadi Party Hits Back
The Samajwadi Party strongly condemned the campaign, calling it a politically motivated attack. Party spokesperson Rajesh Mishra alleged that the posters reflect the BJP’s “frustration and desperation.”
He claimed that voters are aware of such tactics and accused the ruling party of trying to mislead the public ahead of elections.
Police Begin Investigation
Local authorities have taken note of the situation. According to Amethi police station in-charge Ravi Singh, officials received information about the posters and teams were sent to investigate their origin and legality.
Similar hoardings have been reported from multiple parts of Lucknow, raising concerns about coordinated political messaging.
Why Are These Posters Controversial?
The posters are controversial due to their sharp political messaging, use of a foreign violence reference, and timing ahead of elections. Critics argue they may deepen political divisions and influence voter perception.
Will This Impact UP Elections 2027?
While it is too early to measure impact, such campaigns can shape public narratives, especially among young voters. Political messaging through films and pop culture is increasingly becoming a tool in election strategies.
Who is targeted in the Dhurandhar posters?
The posters target Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav while praising UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Who put up the posters?
A group called “Youth Against Mafia” has claimed responsibility, saying it is an awareness campaign for voters.
