Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took a strong stance on the recent Gomti Nagar incident, declaring that anyone threatening women’s safety would face severe consequences.
Addressing the state assembly on Thursday, he emphasised that the accused in the July 31 incident of molestation and harassment near Hotel Taj would not be treated leniently. “Women’s safety is our top priority,” CM Yogi stated. “The accused in the Gomti Nagar incident will face strict legal action, not ‘Sadbhavna’ but a ‘bullet train’ approach. Preparations for this are underway,” he assured.
Yogi Adityanath’s comments were made in response to the violent harassment that took place in a waterlogged underpass. He condemned the perpetrators, Manoj Yadav and Mohammad Arbaaz, asserting that their actions would be met with the full force of the law.
The CM questioned, “Should we garland criminals instead of taking decisive action?” He stressed that the government’s priority is to ensure respect and security for everyone, with strict consequences for those who create unrest.
In his address, CM Yogi reflected on the actions taken by the government. He highlighted that the incident prompted immediate and serious responses: the removal of the DCP, ADCP, and ACP involved, and the suspension of the police inspector and all personnel at the police outpost. These steps were part of the government's commitment to address the issue with the gravity it deserves.
Yogi Adityanath also criticised the Samajwadi Party (SP) and its leaders, accusing them of involvement in serious crimes. He pointed out that Moin Khan, a key suspect in the Ayodhya rape case, is an SP office bearer and MP from Faizabad. The SP has not acted against him, which CM Yogi condemned. He further criticized the former SP district president implicated in the Hardoi incident, highlighting a history of criminal activity and questioning why such individuals have not faced proper action.
The chief minister described these individuals as a blight on society and argued that improving conditions in Uttar Pradesh will be challenging until this issue is addressed. “Should we honour such criminals, or should they face severe consequences?” he asked. He emphasised the need for a strong and effective response to ensure justice and safety.
Yogi contrasted Uttar Pradesh’s current situation with the past, noting significant improvements. He cited a substantial decrease in crimes against women from 2017 to 2022 compared to the national average. He pointed out that crime rates in states like Telangana, Odisha, and Rajasthan had increased more than in Uttar Pradesh during this period. Specifically, UP ranks 24th in terms of rape cases, with higher crime rates reported in states such as Chhattisgarh and Kerala.
The CM also highlighted the increased enforcement measures under the current government. Actions taken under the Arms Act, NDPS Act, Excise Act, Goonda Act, and Gangster Act have all seen significant rises, reflecting the state's commitment to tackling crime effectively. This increase in enforcement demonstrates the government’s proactive approach to addressing and reducing criminal activities.
In addition to his comments on crime and safety, CM Yogi Adityanath discussed the broader progress in Uttar Pradesh. He highlighted that the state has seen a significant transformation, becoming the second-largest economy in India from a position of relative economic insignificance. He emphasised that the government is developing a roadmap for the next three to five years, focusing on advancements in education, health, and skill development. This includes creating new job opportunities and improving the state’s overall economic standing.
The chief minister criticised the SP’s handling of various cases and underscored the need for rigorous action against criminals. He condemned the SP for not taking action against its members involved in serious crimes and stressed that such inaction tarnishes the party’s reputation. Yogi Adityanath’s remarks reflect his administration's commitment to addressing crime, improving public safety, and advancing the state’s development agenda.
