Lucknow — The tragic suicide of a textile trader, his wife, and their teenage daughter in Lucknow has sent shockwaves across Uttar Pradesh, sparking intense political criticism. Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajai Rai, reacting sharply on Monday, blamed the BJP-led state government for fostering a climate of “economic hopelessness” that he believes is driving families to such fatal decisions.
According to initial reports, the family consumed poison, a desperate act Rai described as “deplorable and heartbreaking.” Speaking to IANS, he expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and stated his intent to visit the bereaved family during his next trip to Lucknow.
“This act is truly tragic,” said Rai. “Such incidents are becoming alarmingly frequent under the BJP regime. People feel powerless and cornered. Small businesses are failing, nothing is selling, and yet banks are pushing for repayments. Commerce is dead, rent is unpaid, and the government remains indifferent to public welfare.”
Rai stressed that the ongoing financial strain faced by small traders and entrepreneurs is leading to an increase in such heartbreaking outcomes. “A tragedy of this kind occurs when a person sees only darkness ahead—no help, no future. There’s a growing sense of helplessness,” he said.
In a broader political context, Rai also responded to AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi’s recent interest in joining the Mahagathbandhan coalition for the upcoming Bihar Assembly elections. “Any decision on inclusion will be taken collectively by the INDIA Bloc members. The coalition is strong in Bihar and is expanding every day,” he affirmed.
When asked about Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav’s criticism of Acharya Dhirendra Shastri (popularly known as Bageshwar Baba) for allegedly charging exorbitant fees from kathavachaks, Rai clarified his stance: “Not all religious storytellers are the same. Many serve with sincerity and expect nothing in return. Dhirendra Shastri operates differently, but to generalize all kathavachaks is unfair.”
On the relationship between the Congress and the Samajwadi Party, Rai dismissed any speculation of rift. “We have our responsibilities, they have theirs. Everything is fine between the two parties,” he concluded.
The tragedy has reignited debates over the government’s handling of the economy, particularly concerning small business owners who continue to bear the brunt of financial uncertainty.
