Lucknow, July 7 -- Uttar Pradesh Minister AK Sharma on Monday lashed out at Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav, accusing him of defaming Hindu religious events like the Kanwar Yatra and Mahakumbh for political gains and engaging in vote-bank politics in the guise of criticism.

Sharma's remarks came as the state prepares for the upcoming Kanwar Yatra, which begins on July 10.

Speaking to ANI, Minister Sharma said, "This one month is like a celebration throughout the country. We are ensuring that there are no potholes on the roads, especially in cities along the Kanwar route. We are ensuring that all manholes and drains are properly covered to prevent any unforeseen accidents at night. Arrangements for separate restrooms for men and wom...