Delineating the stark contrast between the ruling National Democratic Alliance and the opposition parties, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Wednesday, said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘nation first’ versus opposition’s ‘family first’ was the main issue in the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls.
Yogi emphasised the Modi administration’s dedication to upholding the rule of law, prioritising national interests and adhering to zero tolerance policy towards corruption, juxtaposing it with the dominance of mafia and thriving corruption during opposition governments in the past.
He contrasted the opposition parties’ divisive politics based on appeasement, caste and religion with Modi’s inclusive governance, aimed at extending the benefits of welfare schemes to all, regardless of background, under the banner of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas”.
Yogi described Prime Minister Modi as a leader who embraces all 140 crore citizens as part of his extended family, urging everyone to envision a new India within the folds of Modi’s family.
In his first public address following the announcement of the Lok Sabha election dates recently, the chief minister engaged with intellectuals, seeking support for MP and Bharatiya Janata Party candidate Hema Malini, while also presenting a comprehensive overview of numerous development schemes of the Modi government.
The chief minister remarked that while the bhajan ‘Holi khele raghubira…’ is a familiar tune to many, it marked a historic occasion when, after 500 years, the revered Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram witnessed the unique Holi celebrations from his abode in Ayodhya. Besides, Holi celebrations in Mathura-Vrindavan, Barsana, Gokul, Govardhan, Nandgaon and Baldev have all grabbed headlines due to the presence of a large number of devotees, the chief minister added.
The chief minister highlighted the remarkable grandeur and influence of the region, underscoring the Vaishnav Mahakumbh held along the banks of Yamuna maiya in 2021. He expressed gratitude for the immense blessings bestowed by Vrindavan Bihari Lal, noting that before the Vaishnav Kumbh, the presence of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) was not acknowledged.
It was only after the conclusion of the Kumbh that the onset of COVID-19 was recognized. The fervour exhibited during the event promised to infuse newfound vigour and resilience. Harnessing this energy, success was achieved in safeguarding the populace of Uttar Pradesh from the perils of COVID-19, guided by the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, he pointed out.
Chief Minister Yogi emphasised the transformative changes witnessed over the past decade, portraying a dynamic shift towards a new India, with fortified border security alongside significant infrastructural advancements under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. Developments span highways, railways, airports, medical colleges, universities, and various new institutions, while benefits of welfare schemes have reached the underprivileged without any discrimination, he added.
“Prior to 2014, schemes were often tailored, based on considerations for caste and religion as part of vote bank politics. However, post-2014, adherence to the principle of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” ensures equal distribution of benefits among people without bias. Every stratum of society – be it the impoverished, entrepreneurs, women, youth or farmers – reaps the rewards, receiving security subsidies universally,” he remarked.
He added: “ Prime Minister Modi’s approach pivots on citizen satisfaction, prioritising inclusivity over appeasement. The blueprint for the new India encompasses job creation for youth, reverence for faith, and preservation of heritage, while fostering a connection between ordinary citizens and development endeavours. Safety assurances extend to daughters, sisters and businessmen alike, with Modi’s pledge centering on integrating farmers into the development narrative.”
The chief minister remarked that before 2014, the North Eastern states grappled with heightened militancy and separatist sentiments, while Jammu and Kashmir faced the scourge of stone-pelting incidents, endangering security personnel. However, today, thanks to the resolve of Modi’s administration, stone-pelting has ceased in Jammu and Kashmir with the abolition of Article 370. This constitutional amendment, introduced by Congress in 1952, exacerbated extremism, yet it was effectively addressed by Modi, he added.
“The current administration has ensured that no intrusions occur along India’s borders and terrorist activities are thwarted. This success in leadership has facilitated comprehensive development, including infrastructure in border regions. Previously, soldiers had to traverse extensive distances with heavy luggage, but now, connectivity to border areas has vastly improved, alleviating logistical burdens and enhancing security measures,” Chief Minister Yogi stated further.
The chief minister remarked that upon Hema Malini’s initial foray into Parliament as an MP, she pledged her allegiance to the Braj region, voicing its grievances. He assured that the issues raised by her in Parliament would be addressed and the aspirations of the people would be fulfilled.
The chief minister lauded the active role being played by members from the world of art, such as Hema Malini, in raising issues of people in Parliament, pointing out that it was through such dedicated public representatives that solutions to challenges emerged. “The Braj region is renowned for its proactive approach, offering solutions rather than presenting problems,” he asserted.
Earlier on Wednesday morning, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited Lord Krishna’s birthplace in Mathura and offered prayers at the temple for the well-being and prosperity of Uttar Pradesh. The chief minister visited the temple before taking part in the Prabuddha Sammelan to formally sound the poll bugle from the sacred city of Mathura.
