Do not put up a show: Rajouri martyr's mother pleads as UP minister insensitively pursues photo-op; Video surfaces

Lucknow: In a heart-wrenching incident, the solemnity of a martyr's sacrifice turned into a shameful spectacle as UP Minister Yogendra Upadhyay pursued a photo opportunity during the cheque handover to the grieving family of Captain Shubham Gupta. The insensitive act, captured in a viral video, has sparked outrage on social media, putting the minister under intense scrutiny.

Captain Shubham Gupta's martyrdom in Rajouri

Late Captain Shubham Gupta, hailing from Agra, Uttar Pradesh, made the ultimate sacrifice while combating terrorists in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir. His bravery earned condolences from Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who announced a grant of ₹50 lakh and a government job for the martyr's family. Additionally, a district road would be named in Captain Shubham Gupta's honor.

Despite the compassionate gesture, a video surfaced, showcasing UP Minister Yogendra Upadhyay's visit to the grieving family. The intended act of handing over a ₹50 lakh cheque took an insensitive turn as the minister and his companions seemed more interested in a photo-op than acknowledging the mother's grief.

Martyr's mother asks to 'Not Put Up A Show'

As the late Captain's mother wept inconsolably, she pleaded with Minister Upadhyay and his convoy to refrain from turning the solemn occasion into a spectacle. However, her emotional plea fell on deaf ears as the minister continued with the cheque presentation, prioritizing photo sessions over empathy.

The video swiftly went viral on social media, becoming a focal point for intense criticism against Minister Yogendra Upadhyay. Users expressed their dismay at the minister's insensitivity, accusing him of disregarding the grieving mother's wishes and exploiting the tragedy for personal gain.

Congress' slams minister's actions

Leading the charge against the insensitive display, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate took to social media, sharing the video and condemning Minister Upadhyay's actions. She wrote, "'Don't hold this exhibition, brother,' the crying mother of 27-year-old martyr Captain Shubham Gupta told BJP government minister Yogendra Upadhyay and sycophants. He arrived with a cheque of ₹50 lakh."

'ये प्रदर्शनी मत लगाओ भाई'

27 साल के शहीद कैप्टन शुभम गुप्ता की बिलखती माँ ने BJP सरकार के मंत्री योगेंद्र उपाध्याय और चाटुकारों से कहा

वो 50 लाख का चेक लेकर पहुंचे थे
pic.twitter.com/dzZ8dEqBG7

— Supriya Shrinate (@SupriyaShrinate) November 24, 2023

The incident has ignited public outrage, with citizens demanding accountability for the disrespectful behavior exhibited by Minister Upadhyay. The outcry on social media reflects the collective disappointment and anger over the exploitation of a solemn moment for political gains.