In a blistering attack on the opposition parties, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Friday, said that unlike in previous governments during which sugarcane payments were delayed to farmers for prolonged periods extending from five to 10 years, today payments were being made to them within a week. 

Addressing the ‘Vijay Shankhnad’ rally at Gateway International School grounds in Baghpat, Yogi said it was an honour to visit the revered land of the eminent son of Mother India and former prime minister, Bharat Ratna Chaudhary Charan Singh. He underscored the significance of the upcoming elections, particularly in light of Chaudhary Charan Singh being posthumously conferred with India’s highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, as a champion of farmers’ causes.

Chief Minister Yogi commended Prime Minister Narendra Modi for acknowledging and incorporating the values and principles of Chaudhary Saheb into the political discourse, implementing welfare schemes for the benefit of farmers, thereby honouring millions of food providers and instilling pride in the people of Uttar Pradesh.

The chief minister made the remarks while seeking votes in favour of the joint candidate of the Bharatiya Janata Party and Rashtriya Lok Dal, Dr Rajkumar Sangwan.

Describing Baghpat as the land of heroes and freedom fighters, Chief Minister Yogi emphasised its historical significance since the Mahabharata era, where the seeds of resistance against injustice and oppression were sown.

Baghpat was among the five villages sought by Lord Krishna for the Pandavas during his visit to the court of Hastinapur five millennia ago.

However, as Chief Minister Yogi remarked, “Duryodhana could not even give the five villages and forfeited society’s blessings, culminating in the war.”

The chief minister remarked: “The upcoming election in Baghpat is slated for April 26 for which the BJP and the RLD have jointly fielded a competent candidate.”

He thanked RLD chief Jayant Chaudhary for nominating an ordinary man from Baghpat, Dr Rajkumar Sangwan, who “embodies the values championed by Chaudhary Charan Singh”.

Noting the enthusiasm among voters, he urged the people to intensify efforts to mobilise support for Sangwan up to the polling day.

Drawing attention to the incumbent MP, Dr Satyapal Singh, Chief Minister Yogi noted his unwavering dedication to Baghpat’s development. Upon assuming office, he swiftly navigated developmental initiatives through bureaucratic channels in record time, the chief minister pointed out.

Highlighting Baghpat’s strategic connectivity via five highways and the effective implementation of the Har Ghar Nal Yojana, the chief minister assured prompt payment of sugarcane prices within a week, a departure from the prolonged waiting periods of the past.

Underscoring the imperative of development for securing a prosperous future for upcoming generations, Chief Minister Yogi highlighted the collaborative efforts of RLD and BJP as essential for Baghpat’s progress.

Furthermore, he criticised the previous administrations for neglecting Baghpat’s youth, who were left disenfranchised despite their aspirations for government employment.

Chief Minister Yogi emphasised the rapid strides India has made under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, elevating the nation’s global stature and ensuring safety for its citizens.

He hailed the eradication of terrorism and Naxalism, and pointed to the improved security for women, entrepreneurs and businesses, coupled with a conducive environment for trade and investment.

Encouraging heightened engagement in the upcoming election in Baghpat, the chief minister underscored the importance of reaffirming support for the Modi government by electing Dr Rajkumar Sangwan.

Given the expansive nature of the constituency, Chief Minister Yogi urged the BJP workers to canvass tirelessly for Dr Sangwan, stressing the need for seamless coordination between BJP and RLD workers.

To propel the developmental agenda, he called for unified efforts from all stakeholders. Additionally, Chief Minister Yogi emphasised the significance of voting and extended hospitality to attendees.