In a recent assembly session, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a strong attack on the Samajwadi Party (SP), stating that prior to 2017, Uttar Pradesh was plagued by a dire law and order crisis. He claimed that under the SP's governance, criminals and mafia were openly operating with the support of the government. The rampant issues of extortion and illegal collection of money, which he termed as 'gunda tax', were prevalent in many districts, creating a state of unrest for the citizens.

Yogi highlighted that there was a parallel government functioning in the state, as mafia leaders exerted significant influence over various regions. This assertion was made to underscore his government's efforts in restoring order since taking power. He painted a picture of a lawless state where every district had its own mafia kingpin, reinforcing the narrative that law enforcement was ineffective prior to 2017 and that justice was often sidelined, leaving citizens anxious and fearful.

The statement's implications are significant in the context of Uttar Pradesh's political landscape, as the ruling BJP seeks to position itself as a party of law and order in contrast to the SP’s perceived inefficacy. By emphasizing the changes since his administration took charge, Yogi aims to strengthen his party’s narrative ahead of upcoming elections, drawing a clear line in the political battleground between current conditions and the past governance under the SP.