Roads for Traffic, Not Namaz; Should Learn Discipline from Hindus: Yogi

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has defended his administration's directive against offering namaz on streets, emphasizing that roads are meant for traffic movement. In an exclusive interview with PTI, he urged Muslims to adopt religious discipline, citing the Maha Kumbh Mela as an example where millions of Hindus participated without incidents of crime or disruption.

Waqf Properties and Reform

Adityanath also slammed critics of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, accusing Waqf boards of being centers of corruption and property grabbing. He questioned their contribution to the welfare of Muslims, comparing them to Hindu temples and mutts that run charitable activities in education and healthcare.

"Waqf has become a tool to capture government property. This reform is necessary, and while all reforms face opposition, I believe Muslims will benefit from it," he asserted.

Bulldozer Model and Law Enforcement

The chief minister reiterated his commitment to strong law enforcement, defending the use of bulldozers to remove illegal encroachments. He dismissed concerns about legal implications, stating that the Supreme Court had acknowledged Uttar Pradesh's adherence to due process.

"The bulldozer is a tool for development as well as law enforcement. We have demonstrated its effective use," he said.

Speculations About Future Leadership

When asked about speculations regarding his potential future as India’s Prime Minister, Adityanath downplayed the notion, emphasizing that politics is not his permanent occupation. "Politics is not a full-time job for me. I remain a Yogi at heart," he remarked.

He denied any rift with the BJP’s central leadership, asserting that he holds his position because of the party’s trust. He also highlighted the RSS’s support for his governance, stating that the organization backs anyone committed to the nation’s progress.

Economic Growth and Development

Adityanath claimed that Uttar Pradesh is on track to become India’s largest economy by 2030, with per capita income equaling the national average. Criticizing previous governments for neglecting development, he highlighted that Uttar Pradesh's economy has more than doubled under his leadership.

"When India gained independence, Uttar Pradesh's per capita income was on par with the national average. By 2016-17, it had dropped to one-third. We have doubled it since then and are set to become the top economy by 2029-30," he said.

Attack on Samajwadi Party Over Cow Slaughter

Taking a dig at Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav, Adityanath accused the SP of having ties with butchers and encouraging cow slaughter during its tenure. Responding to Yadav’s comment that the BJP is obsessed with cow dung, Adityanath said, "They handed cows over to butchers, so naturally, they dislike cow dung." 

He also claimed that law and order have drastically improved under his rule. "Earlier, riots were frequent in Bareilly and other regions. Now, rioters are afraid of consequences. If they engage in violence, their property will be confiscated and distributed to the poor," he warned.

Promotion of Regional Languages

Addressing the ongoing debate on language politics, Adityanath emphasized that learning multiple languages strengthens national unity. He noted that Uttar Pradesh’s schools now teach Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada, Bengali, and Marathi. 

"Learning different languages does not diminish the importance of a state. Those engaging in language politics are harming their own states," he said, indirectly referring to Tamil Nadu CM M.K. Stalin.

Kashi Tamil Sangamam and Cultural Ties

Adityanath also praised the Kashi Tamil Sangamam initiative, which promotes cultural and linguistic unity between Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. He emphasized the importance of respecting all languages, arguing that regional linguistic traditions enrich India’s diversity.

Infrastructure and Public Welfare Initiatives

During an event in Bareilly, Adityanath inaugurated and laid the foundation for 132 development projects worth Rs 933 crore. He also flagged off 2,554 new ambulances equipped with life-saving facilities and launched a communicable disease control campaign. 

Additionally, he kickstarted the ‘School Chalo Abhiyan’ to promote school enrollment for the 2025-26 academic session. "We are committed to improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education to ensure Uttar Pradesh's rapid development," he said.

Uttar Pradesh's Transformation in Law and Order

Adityanath highlighted the transformation of Uttar Pradesh under his leadership, particularly in maintaining law and order. He claimed that in previous regimes, crime syndicates were shielded by political patronage, but his government has taken strict measures to curb crime. 

"Criminals who were once protected now find themselves either in jail or having fled the state. Our administration has ensured the safety and security of all citizens, especially women and businessmen," he stated.

Social Welfare and Public Outreach

Adityanath reiterated his commitment to social welfare schemes, citing initiatives such as free ration distribution, housing for the poor, and financial support for farmers. He highlighted that over 15 crore people in Uttar Pradesh benefit from the free ration scheme. 

"We have ensured that no one in Uttar Pradesh sleeps hungry. Our government is committed to the welfare of the poor, farmers, and youth," he said. 

When asked about how he would like to be remembered, Adityanath dismissed concerns about legacy. "It is not the name but the work that should be remembered. One's identity should be defined by their actions, not their name," he concluded.