Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized that individuals from all religious backgrounds are safe in the state, asserting that the safety of Hindus directly correlates with the safety of Muslims. His comments come into the context of ongoing discussions about communal harmony and law enforcement in Uttar Pradesh since the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) assumed power in 2017.
Adityanath stated that communal violence has significantly decreased under his administration, claiming that Muslims in Uttar Pradesh are particularly secure. He remarked, “If Hindus are safe, then Muslims are also safe. Before 2017, riots would lead to the burning of both Hindu and Muslim shops and homes. Since we came to power, such incidents have stopped.”
The Chief Minister expressed confidence in the safety of Muslim families living among Hindu communities, suggesting that they would feel secure in such environments. However, he raised concerns about the reverse scenario, questioning whether Hindu families would feel safe in predominantly Muslim neighborhoods. He cited historical examples from neighboring countries, including Bangladesh and Pakistan, to illustrate his point about communal tensions.
Adityanath described himself as an ordinary citizen of Uttar Pradesh who aspires for the well-being of all communities. He reiterated his commitment to equality and development for everyone, regardless of their religious affiliation. “I believe in everyone’s support and development,” he stated.
In discussing the cultural significance of Sanatan Dharma, Adityanath referred to it as the world’s most ancient religion, asserting that its followers have historically not sought to convert others. He claimed that there are no instances of Hindu rulers using force to dominate other communities, emphasizing a narrative of peaceful coexistence.
The Chief Minister also addressed law and order during significant religious events, such as Ram Navami and Eid. He mentioned that the state has established a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure peace during these occasions. “Uttar Pradesh is the first state to control noise pollution in accordance with Supreme Court directives, and we have successfully managed this through effective communication with the administration,” he noted.
Adityanath also touched upon a recent incident involving a mosque that was covered with tarpaulin during Holi celebrations. He clarified that strict guidelines are in place to prevent colors from being thrown at the mosque, while also asserting that playing with colors does not harm anyone. He drew a parallel to religious processions, questioning whether the presence of flags during Muharram could be seen as impure to Hindu households nearby.
“Even if something has fallen, the administration is cleaning and repainting it,” he assured, indicating a commitment to maintaining communal harmony and respect for all religious practices.
The Chief Minister’s remarks reflect a broader narrative of promoting peace and security among diverse communities in Uttar Pradesh, a state that has historically faced challenges related to communal tensions. His statements aim to reassure citizens of all faiths about their safety and the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order.
As Uttar Pradesh continues to navigate its complex social fabric, Adityanath’s administration appears focused on fostering an environment where all communities can coexist peacefully, while also addressing the historical grievances that have shaped inter-religious relations in the region.
