On December 3, 2026, the Congress party demanded Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to immediately stop the auction of a part of the Rifle Club sports ground in Banda city. The auction, advertised by the Banda Development Authority, concerns a commercial plot of 4,343.20 square meters. The last date to apply for the auction is January 21, 2026. Ajay Rai, Uttar Pradesh Congress chief, wrote to the CM saying, "The ground plays an important role in the physical development of numerous children and youngsters." He added the shrinking public spaces and parks harm young people's health. Rai expressed concern that auctioning this ground will be bad for residents and physical well-being. Speaking to The Hindu, he said, "Such a step is completely wrong and is leading to dissatisfaction among residents." The auction notice was published on January 1, 2026, inviting bids for the commercial plot of the Rifle Club in Banda. Rai urged CM Yogi Adityanath to protect these public spaces for the future of children and communities.