LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has sparked a fresh political debate with his comments on reclaiming religious sites, a move opposition leaders claim is an attempt to stoke communal tensions. Speaking in the state Assembly during a discussion on the Budget, Adityanath asserted that Hindus should get back what “rightfully belongs to them,” a remark that has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups.
Referring to efforts made in Sambhal district, he said, “In Sambhal alone, there were at least 87 places of worship—68 teerths and 19 wells—which were closed due to some mischief in a certain period of time. Of these, 54 were identified and restored.”
Rejecting allegations that the BJP harbors a communal mindset, the Chief Minister stated, “Humne to wahi kiya hai, wahi kaha hai… jo hamara hai, woh hamein milna chahiye” (We have always done and said that we should get what is ours). Opposition leaders argue that such rhetoric is designed to deepen religious divisions rather than focus on governance issues like unemployment, inflation, and law and order.
Adityanath also attacked the Samajwadi Party, accusing it of abandoning the principles of socialist leader Ram Manohar Lohia. “Lohia ji kehte the, Bharat tab tak surakshit hai jab tak yahaan Ram, Krishna aur Shankar ke siddhant rahenge” (Lohia ji used to say that India will remain safe as long as it follows the principles of Ram, Krishna, and Shankar),” he claimed, a statement that critics argue undermines the secular fabric of the country.
On the upcoming Maha Kumbh, he dismissed concerns over mismanagement, saying, “Neither people of the state nor of the country listened to you (Opposition). For you, this is the start of a countdown.” His remarks were seen as political posturing rather than an attempt to address logistical challenges surrounding the event.
Adityanath’s speech comes amid rising communal tensions in Uttar Pradesh, particularly after the violence in Sambhal following a survey of the Shahi Jama Masjid in Chandausi. Instead of addressing the unrest, the Chief Minister emphasized temple restoration, leading to accusations of selective governance.
Opposition leaders have hit back, with a Samajwadi Party spokesperson stating, “While people suffer from inflation and unemployment, the government is busy pushing a religious agenda instead of focusing on real issues.” Many critics argue that the BJP is using religious rhetoric to consolidate its voter base ahead of elections, rather than delivering on governance promises.
As UP moves closer to electoral battles, Adityanath’s speech signals a continued hardline approach—one that, according to detractors, risks fueling further communal divides instead of fostering inclusive development.
