Uttar Pradesh Congress president Ajay Rai has urged Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to halt the auction of a portion of the Banda Rifle Club sports ground. Rai stated the ground is crucial for the physical development of local children and youngsters, highlighting a scarcity of public spaces for physical activity in Banda. The Banda Development Authority advertised the commercial plot for auction, with applications due January 21, 2026. Rai expressed that the move is causing dissatisfaction among residents and is unacceptable given the shrinking availability of playgrounds.