Lucknow, Sept. 10 -- Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav on Thursday alleged that the Uttar Pradesh government had denied permission for a party rally in Bulandshahr, saying, "Why is the government so terrified of democratic political programs?" and alleging suppression of the Opposition.

Addressing a press conference, Yadav said the SP's local leadership had repeatedly approached the District Magistrate and other administrative officials seeking permission for the programme. He alleged that while the administration initially assured the party that permission for the rally ground would be granted, officials later cited the ongoing Sawan season and asked the party to reschedule the event.

"We adjusted our schedule and submitted a new da...