If They Give Me a Bulletproof Jacket, I’ll Give It to Journalists – Akhilesh Yadav

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav has responded to the Uttar Pradesh government’s decision to provide bulletproof jackets to several political leaders ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. Speaking to the media on Saturday, August 22, Akhilesh said he had not yet received a bulletproof jacket and joked that even if one was given to him, he would not wear it and would instead give it to journalists. He added that ruling party leaders needed such protection more than he did.

The Yogi Adityanath government has decided to provide bulletproof jackets to 52 prominent leaders based on security threat assessments ahead of the elections expected in early 2027. The list reportedly includes Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Akhilesh Yadav and BSP chief Mayawati. Government sources said each jacket could cost around ₹10 lakh. Despite being included in the list, Akhilesh has declined the protection.