UP Assembly MLA Pallavi Patel Claims Barriers to Discuss Technical Education Irregularities

Apna Dal Kamerawadi leader and SP MLA Pallavi Patel has raised concerns over alleged irregularities in Uttar Pradesh's technical education department. After staging a protest at the assembly premises, she claimed she was denied the opportunity to discuss the issue in the assembly. Despite assurances from Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna and the principal secretary, Vidhan Sabha, she was not allowed to speak due to procedural rules.

Pallavi Patel, elder sister of Union Minister Anupriya Patel, protested late into Monday night. Her protest aimed to demand an investigation into alleged irregularities linked to her brother-in-law, Ashish Patel, who is the state's technical education minister. Allegations suggest that lecturers were promoted to department heads instead of recruiting directly, potentially disadvantaging candidates from backward and Dalit communities.

Allegations of Political Conspiracy

Ashish Patel, a senior leader of Apna Dal Soneylal, responded to these allegations by suggesting a political conspiracy against him. He stated that accusations of irregular promotions are baseless and part of a plot to damage his political career. He emphasised his commitment to protecting the interests of staff from deprived classes during his tenure.

In a series of posts on X, Ashish Patel expressed his readiness to resign if instructed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He reiterated that the allegations are unfounded and politically motivated. Apna Dal Soneylal is part of the BJP-led NDA coalition.

Call for Judicial Intervention

Pallavi Patel has called for judicial intervention in this matter. She expressed her desire for the high court to take suo motu cognisance due to the seriousness of the allegations. When asked about her next steps, she mentioned plans to strategise further actions.

The controversy centres around more than 100 lecturers allegedly promoted in violation of reservation norms. Critics argue that direct recruitment could have benefited candidates from reserved categories through reservation policies.

The situation remains tense as both sides present their arguments. Pallavi Patel continues to push for accountability and transparency within the technical education department. Meanwhile, Ashish Patel defends his actions and awaits further developments regarding these allegations.