Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath fiercely defended his government’s handling of the recent Sambhal violence during a charged assembly session, accusing the opposition of shedding "crocodile tears" while ignoring past communal killings involving Hindus.
“Since Independence, 209 Hindus have been killed in Sambhal during communal riots, but not a single opposition leader ever spoke out,” Adityanath claimed, referencing historical riots that scarred the state.
Leader of Opposition Mata Prasad Pandey hit back, accusing the CM of evading accountability. “Instead of answering the real issue, the Chief Minister has tried to mislead the House by dragging in unrelated historical events,” Pandey said. He urged the government to focus on present challenges rather than deflecting responsibility through historical narratives.
Adityanath questioned why Hindu religious processions face restrictions in Muslim-majority areas, while Muslim processions proceed freely in Hindu-dominated regions. “This discrimination will not be tolerated,” he declared, announcing a judicial inquiry into the Sambhal violence to uncover the facts.
Recalling past communal clashes, Adityanath listed violent incidents from the 1970s in cities like Agra, Azamgarh, Gonda, Prayagraj, Meerut, and Pilibhit. He contrasted this with his administration’s record, claiming a 97% reduction in communal riots under BJP rule, citing National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data.
“How can chanting 'Ram Ram,' a cultural tradition, be communal?” the CM asked, accusing the opposition of undermining India’s religious heritage. He also cited historical texts like *Babar Nama* to assert that several mosques were built by demolishing temples, linking Friday prayers to recent violent clashes. “We have historical evidence supporting our claims,” he asserted.
Backing the implementation of a Uniform Civil Code, Adityanath argued that it reflects the people’s will and accused the opposition of resisting court-backed reforms for vote-bank politics. “Our Constitution guarantees equality for all. Why should anyone oppose a law ensuring uniform personal rights?” he questioned.
Reaffirming his government’s strict stance against violence, he promised harsh legal action against anyone found involved in riots. “We have zero tolerance for lawlessness,” he said, pointing to video evidence showing rioters pelting stones and wielding weapons. “No culprit will escape justice,” he added.
The Chief Minister framed recent electoral victories in constituencies like Kundarki and Phulpur as symbolic wins for *Sanatan Dharma* over divisive politics. He stressed that festivals such as Navratri and processions like Shobha Yatra are central to India's cultural identity.
Adityanath also warned the opposition against inciting communal tension through inflammatory speeches. “If anyone creates anarchy, they will face strict action under the law,” he emphasized.
Concluding his speech, Adityanath pledged unwavering commitment to preserving India’s religious heritage while maintaining law and order. “We will not allow history to repeat itself. Peace and justice will prevail in Uttar Pradesh,” he affirmed.
