Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Wednesday, said that the decision to abrogate Article 370, a move led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, had uprooted the breeding ground for terrorism from the Valley and there was palpable enthusiasm from Red Fort in Delhi to the bustling Lal Chowk in Jammu for this transformative action.
“This has fostered renewed vigour in places like the Red Fort and Lal Chowk as they become integral parts of the developmental mainstream. Every citizen desires to witness rightful integration of Jammu and Kashmir into the nation’s fabric,” he remarked.
Addressing an election rally at the Sports Stadium in Kathua on his inaugural campaign visit to Jammu for the Lok Sabha elections of 2024, Yogi took a swipe at the leaders of opposition parties, describing them as “accidental Hindus who refuted the existence of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna”.
He added that Congress would never have built a Ram temple in Ayodhya.
Yogi Adityanath made these remarks while seeking votes for Union Minister and Udhampur MP, Dr Jitendra Singh, who is the BJP’s Lok Sabha candidate. Yogi also extended Vasantik Navratri greetings to the people of Jammu. He hailed the region as a sacred land revered by deities, sages and saints, symbolising unity, sacrifice and progress towards a stronger India.
He stated: “Despite these challenges, significant strides have been made, as is evident from the construction of the grand Ram temple in Ayodhya, today. Ayodhya now stands as a beacon of Tretayuga’s glory, inviting visitors to witness its magnificence. Furthermore, the transformation of Kashi Vishwanath Dham in Kashi signifies progress, with once-narrow streets seamlessly accommodating tens of thousands of devotees.”
Hitting out at the Congress for its “power-hungry” politics, Yogi reiterated, “India’s unity has always been anchored in nationalism, transcending personal beliefs. The paramount importance lies in safeguarding the nation’s independence, sovereignty and integrity.”
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also highlighted the stark contrast between India’s self-reliance and Pakistan’s dependence on international aid. He remarked: “While India is providing free ration to 80 crore people today, Pakistan, since its separation from India in 1947, has been moving around with a begging bowl.”
Yogi Adityanath underscored, “India’s growing global respect under the banner of Ek Bharat-Shrestha Bharat and the reinforced security measures along the borders, has ensured Pakistan’s inability to breach India’s security.”
He asserted that a strong government guarantees a robust security system, leaving no room for external interference.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath asserted that he would not refrain from visiting Ayodhya despite criticism, or for vote bank politics. “Those inclined to anger may remain so, but I cannot forsake Ayodhya for political gains. I cannot disrespect public faith,” the chief minister declared.
Reflecting on people’s reluctance to identify as Hindu or mention Ayodhya openly in the past, he pointed out that upon assuming office in 2017, he defied convention by visiting Ayodhya despite initial scepticism and opposition. Urging preparation for the grand Deepotsav festival in Ayodhya, he asserted that the centuries-long wait could end only with a competent government.
The Chief Minister remarked further that Uttar Pradesh was the first state to remove loudspeakers from religious venues, symbolising a shift towards prioritising development over rhetoric. Encouraging unity, the chief minister invited residents of Jammu to experience the transformed Ayodhya, boasting of new infrastructure such as expressways. Additionally, he emphasised stringent security measures in Uttar Pradesh, where those inciting trouble face swift and decisive action, including unconventional deterrents.
Highlighting Uttar Pradesh’s transformation, Yogi said that the state where riots and curfews had become the order of the day, had not witnessed a single riot in the last seven years. The chief minister emphasised moving beyond divisive issues such as region, caste and language. He urged citizens not to fall into the trap of such distractions, stressing that it was time to focus on progress and nation-building.
Highlighting the need to bolster the country’s foundations, he underscored the importance of integrating regions like Kathua into the developmental agenda to ensure a prosperous future for current and upcoming generations.
Contrasting the past with the present, he noted the significant strides made in infrastructure and education in Jammu and Kashmir over the past decade, denouncing those who previously neglected the region’s development. He also referenced past instances where certain groups abandoned their responsibilities during national crises, citing the tragic events in Doda as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting national duty.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also commended Jitendra Singh’s performance in discharging his duties as a Union minister and a party worker. Emphasising the need to communicate the achievements of the past decade effectively, the UP chief minister advocated for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s re-election for a third term and endorsed Dr Jitendra Singh as Modi’s representative for a consecutive third term.
Praising Dr Singh’s dedication and efficiency, the UP chief minister recalled their shared tenure as MPs in 2014. “Dr. Singh’s unwavering commitment to the development of Jammu and Kashmir, coupled with his adept handling of responsibilities entrusted by both the government and the party, earned him recognition as a vital contributor to the ongoing developmental initiatives led by Prime Minister Modi,” he stated.
‘Yogiji behind the transformed UP’
PNS | Lucknow
Union minister Dr Jitendra Singh lauded the transformative impact of Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s leadership. He underscored the reverence and admiration the people hold for Yogiji, viewing him as an exemplar.
Highlighting Yogi Adityanath’s significant role in reshaping the destiny and perception of Uttar Pradesh, Dr Singh noted the emphasis placed on women’s safety and empowerment.
Commending initiatives such as construction of over 11 crore toilets and renaming them as Izzatghar under Yogi Adityanath’s administration, Dr Singh emphasised the integration of health and dignity in providing facilities to women. “This holistic approach has garnered enthusiastic support from women, contributing to the broader endorsement of the Modi-Yogi duo,” he remarked.
