UP CM Yogi Adityanath slams SP, Congress over Ram Temple Row

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a sharp attack on the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Congress, accusing them of hypocrisy over their recent remarks on Lord Ram and the Ayodhya Ram Temple.

Addressing a public gathering in Rampur after inaugurating and laying the foundation stones for 102 development projects worth over ₹690 crore, Adityanath alleged that the opposition parties, which had earlier opposed the Ram Temple movement, were now invoking Lord Ram for political gains.

"The very people who once ordered lathi-charges on those chanting 'Jai Shri Ram' and questioned the existence of Lord Ram are today speaking in the name of faith," the chief minister said.

His remarks come amid a political row over alleged embezzlement of donations at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, with opposition parties accusing the BJP of betraying the ideals associated with Lord Ram.

Adityanath claimed that the opposition's change in stance was driven by public sentiment and electoral realities.

"It is the people's faith that has compelled them to change their stand. Those who once questioned Lord Ram and Lord Krishna are now saying Ram belongs to everyone and are eager to visit Ayodhya," he said.

The chief minister also highlighted Ayodhya's transformation under the BJP government, citing improved road and rail connectivity, the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport and large-scale infrastructure development. He said the city now reflects the grandeur associated with the Treta Yuga.

Taking another swipe at the opposition, Adityanath said their frustration stemmed from the rapid development of Ayodhya.

"They failed to stop these developments and are now resorting to falsehoods because the people have already given them a fitting reply," he said.

Drawing references from the Ramayana, the chief minister said devotion to Lord Ram gave Lord Hanuman the strength to overcome challenges and accused the opposition of using deceit and misinformation for political purposes.

Adityanath also criticised the previous Samajwadi Party government, alleging that before 2017 Uttar Pradesh witnessed repeated law and order issues, disruptions during religious festivals and neglect of the state's cultural heritage.

Highlighting the development of Rampur, once considered a Samajwadi Party stronghold, he said the district had witnessed significant progress since the BJP came to power.

"Rampur has changed. Development projects are being implemented and the district is moving forward with renewed focus on infrastructure and heritage," he said.