In a wide-ranging interview with ANI, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed a host of political, cultural, and legal issues – from defending the Maha Kumbh and the state’s law-and-order stance to slamming opposition parties over religion-based reservations, foreign funding, and alleged misinformation campaigns.
His comments reflect a firm position on governance, national unity, and the preservation of India’s spiritual and constitutional values.
Responds To Mamata’s ‘Mrityu Kumbh’ Claim
UP CM Yogi Adityanath refuted West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee’s claims about the Prayagraj Kumbh, calling it ‘Mrityunjay Mahakumbh’ (Celebration of Death), despite her allegations of mismanagement.
“Every day from Bengal, from January 13 to February 26, 50,000 to 100,000 devotees used to come to Prayagraj. The West Bengal Government got scared to see the crowd as their railway stations and airports were filled with people heading to Prayagraj. Whether it is the West Bengal Government, the Congress, the RJD, or the Samajwadi Party, whatever they have said about the Mahakumbh is an example of their appeasement. It is an example of insulting the faith of India. But the Mahakumbh has proved that it was a Mrityunjay Mahakumbh,” stated CM Yogi Adityanath.
He credited the event’s success to the devotion of millions of pilgrims and criticized opposition parties for undermining the faith and efforts behind the event.
Defends Bulldozer Actions
UP CM Yogi Adityanath robustly defended the bulldozer actions against lawbreakers, asserting that the government must deal with those who violate the law in a way they can comprehend, emphasizing that such actions are crucial for maintaining law and order in the state.
He firmly stated that the state government remains fully committed to serving justice and upholding law and order, even when facing various challenges and controversies, reflecting a strong stance on law enforcement.
Additionally, CM Yogi addressed concerns surrounding religious disputes, specifically highlighting the ongoing Mathura mosque issue and the growing issue of illegal mosque constructions on sites that hold significant religious and historical value for Hindus, particularly in Sambhal, and reassured that his administration is working diligently within the bounds of the law, adhering to court decisions, and taking appropriate measures to resolve these matters while simultaneously ensuring peace, security, and communal harmony.
Speaking to ANI, “Those who believe in justice, justice is done for them. Those who take justice and law into their own hands, they are taught a lesson in the framework of law. It should be explained in the language in which they understand it. If someone comes in front of us as a violent person to attack us, should we stand in front of him? No, if he comes as a violent person, then we will have to respond to his violence there.”
Slams Congress on Religion-Based Reservations
CM Yogi Adityanath condemned DK Shivakumar and the Congress for advocating religion-based reservations in Karnataka, labeling it an insult to Dr. Ambedkar’s Constitution.
He emphasized that Ambedkar had strongly opposed religion-based reservations during the Constituent Assembly debates, advocating instead for social reservations to uplift those suffering from untouchability.
In contrast, CM Adityanath criticized the Congress for repeatedly undermining Ambedkar’s vision, pointing out that such proposals were a direct contradiction to his ideals.
“The Karnataka government giving reservations on the basis of religion is an insult to the Constitution given by Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar. During discussions in the Constituent Assembly, the issue of religion-based reservations was raised, and Babasaheb protested against it,” he said.
He further contrasted this with the BJP’s policies, which focus on promoting social justice and equality, especially through initiatives like the abolition of triple talaq.
Third Term Prospects
On the speculation of a third term as UP CM, Yogi Adityanath stated that the people’s support would decide government formation.
“This is the first time a Chief Minister has served five years continuously and formed the government again with a two-thirds majority. For the last eight years, we’ve been serving here because of our model of service, security, and governance that the BJP has effectively applied. In a democracy, who the people support will form the government,” CM Adityanath said.
Reflecting on his successful tenure, he emphasized the achievements of his administration and confirmed that the BJP leadership would decide the future leadership for the next election.
Maha Kumbh Against Political Claims
CM Yogi Adityanath dismissed claims that the MahaKumbh festival was a BJP-led political event, stressing its spiritual and cultural significance.
“Prime Minister Modi ji established Prayagraj Kumbh in UNESCO in 2019 as a cultural heritage. He encouraged the inclusion of global missions in Prayagraj. He worked to unite the indigenous Indians of the world with the Kumbh. PM Modi organized Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Varanasi in 2019. Kumbh means Bhavya and Divya. It means cleanliness, security, and well-being became its model. We should learn to respect the facilities of the people and their faith. The vision given by Modi ji,” CM Adityanath said.
He highlighted the event’s success, including record participation and technological advancements, and emphasized its status as a global cultural celebration rather than a partisan gathering.
Waqf Bill Misinformation
CM Yogi Adityanath criticized the opposition for misrepresenting the BJP’s stance on the Waqf Bill, clarifying that the bill aims to prevent the misuse of Waqf properties and ensure they benefit the Muslim community.
He explained that the bill’s primary focus is on reclaiming encroached land and ensuring transparency in the management of these properties.
“The JPC has requested that the Waqf Amendment be made a necessity today, and it should move forward in a timely manner. I think it will be for the benefit of the country and also for the benefit of Muslims,” CM Yogi Adityanath said.
He accused the Waqf Board of misusing its authority for personal gain, stressing that the BJP protects the rights of the Muslim community and ensures these properties benefit their welfare.
Restoration Of Sambhal Temples
CM Yogi Adityanath pledged to restore historical temples in Sambhal, a city of significant religious heritage.
He said, “We have identified more than 54 sites and are searching for the rest. The scientific evidence is present. We are showing where they are, and we will address them one by one.”
He stressed the importance of preserving Hindu symbols and heritage, addressing the issue of mosques built on the ruins of temples and vowing to take legal action to protect these sites.
Criticizes Stalin Over Language Row
CM Yogi Adityanath criticized Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin for fueling division in the three-language debate.
CM Yogi said, “The country should not divided on the basis of language or region. We are grateful to Prime Minister Modi ji for organizing the third generation of the Kashi-Tamil Sangamam in Varanasi. Tamil is one of the oldest languages in India, and its history is as ancient as Sanskrit. Every Indian has respect and reverence for Tamil because many elements of Indian heritage are still alive in the language. So, why should we hate Hindi?”
He advocated for multilingual education and unity, stressing that people should equally respect languages like Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi across the country while rejecting divisive regional politics.
“I believe this is the message conveyed by our National Anthem as well. This is merely narrow politics. When these people feel their vote bank is at risk, they try to create divisions based on region and language. The people of this country should always be alert to such divisive politics and stand firm for the unity of the country,” CM Yogi Adityanath further said.
Rahul Gandhi & Congress
CM Yogi Adityanath targeted Rahul Gandhi and Congress for stoking the Ayodhya dispute for decades, accusing them of delaying the construction of the Ram Mandir during their rule.
He also criticized Rahul’s ‘Bharat Jodo Yatra’, calling it a campaign to divide the nation, and questioned Congress’s commitment to national unity.
“The Bharat Jodo Yatra is part of Bharat Todo Abhiyan. He criticises India outside India. The country has understood his nature and intentions. In India’s politics, Bharatiya Janata Party ke liye Rahul jaise kuch namune rehne chahiye jisse ek rasta hamesha ke liye saaf hota rahe aur acha rahe,” he added.
Kunal Kamra’s Remarks & Legal Action
CM Yogi Adityanath condemned comedian Kunal Kamra for his controversial remarks against Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, calling for legal action.
“Freedom of expression is in the realm of law. It should be in the realm of constitutional values. And in that realm, there is freedom of expression. You cannot use your personal freedom to attack someone else. It is unfortunate that some people have considered the freedom of this individual as their birthright to divide the country and increase the division. And I feel that the law should take action against such people who are creating a difference in the country,” CM Yogi said.
He stressed that individuals should not misuse freedom of expression to incite division and urged authorities to hold accountable those who use their platforms to spread discord.
Safety for All Religions in UP
CM Yogi Adityanath reassured that both Hindus and Muslims are safe in Uttar Pradesh under his leadership.
CM Yogi Adityanath emphasized the safety of Muslims in Uttar Pradesh, highlighting that since the BJP’s rise to power in 2017, communal riots have ceased.
He stressed that both Hindus and Muslims are safe under his leadership, saying, “If Hindus are safe, Muslims are equally safe.” The CM recalled that before 2017, violence had affected properties belonging to both Hindus and Muslims.
“Now, under my leadership, the state has achieved peace and harmony,” he added.
He also highlighted international examples, warning that ignoring tensions could lead to escalation. CM Yogi reaffirmed, “I am a Yogi who wishes for everyone’s happiness and development.”
He emphasized the safety of minorities and highlighted his government’s commitment to communal harmony, citing examples of peaceful religious events and stressing the protection of properties belonging to both communities.
Foreign Money Influence In Elections
CM Yogi Adityanath accused Congress and the INDIA alliance of trying to influence the 2024 Lok Sabha elections through foreign funds and propaganda, including George Soros’ involvement.
He criticized the opposition for their electoral defeats and praised the BJP’s victory, highlighting the party’s transparency and commitment to the Constitution.
“I am saying that foreign money was involved in the Lok Sabha elections throughout the country in which Congress and other parties of the INDIA bloc were directly involved in it and through that, they tried to influence the elections. This action falls under the category of treason. You are taking money from a foreign power and influencing the country’s elections,” he added.
CM Yogi: INDIA Alliance Used Soros’ Money
CM Yogi Adityanath accused Congress and the INDIA bloc of using foreign money, particularly from George Soros, to sway the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
He described this as treason and criticized the opposition for their divisive politics. He also reaffirmed his government’s commitment to law, order, and the Constitution.
In an exclusive interview with ANI, CM Adityanath further stated, “They did propaganda and they had not only spread propaganda, but foreign money was also involved in it. George Soros had long ago announced it. I am saying that foreign money was involved in the Lok Sabha elections throughout the country in which Congress and other parties of the INDIA bloc were directly or indirectly involved, and through that, they tried to influence the elections. This falls in the category of deshdroh (treason).”
In Conclusion, CM Yogi Adityanath’s responses to his critics reflect his strong stance on law and order, the importance of faith, and the need for constitutional integrity.
As Uttar Pradesh’s CM, he continues to steer his policies with a focus on development, security, and the preservation of India’s spiritual heritage.
Also Read: PM Narendra Modi To Attend Screening Of Historical Film ‘Chhaava’ At Parliament
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