Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Emphasizes Roads for Traffic, Urges Religious Discipline Inspired by Hindus
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has strongly defended his administration's recent warning to the Muslim community against offering namaz on streets, asserting that roads should be reserved exclusively for traffic movement.In an exclusive interview, Adityanath remarked, "Roads are meant for walking. Those criticizing our decision should learn religious discipline from Hindus. Sixty-six crore people attended the Maha Kumbh mela at Prayagraj without a single incident of robbery, arson, property destruction, or abduction. That’s what religious discipline truly looks like. If you want benefits, you must also follow discipline."
Criticism of Waqf Boards and Support for Proposed Reforms
Adityanath also lashed out at critics of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, accusing the Waqf boards of becoming centers of selfish interests and rampant property grabbing ("loot khasot"), doing little for Muslim welfare.He questioned the effectiveness of Waqf boards by drawing comparisons with Hindu religious institutions. "Hindu temples and mutts have consistently provided charity in education and health sectors. Can any Waqf board claim similar contributions, despite holding significantly larger properties? Forget about benefiting society as a whole—have Waqf properties even been effectively utilized for Muslim welfare?" he asked.
The Chief Minister further explained, "Waqf has become a tool for seizing government property. This reform is essential and, though controversial, I firmly believe it will benefit Muslims."
Rejecting Allegations of Discrimination Against Muslims
Responding to criticism that his administration discriminates against Muslims, Adityanath dismissed such claims, highlighting that despite Muslims constituting approximately 20% of the state's population, they receive 35-40% of benefits under various government welfare schemes."We neither believe in discrimination nor in appeasement. Our stance has always been clear—any needy citizen of India, irrespective of their background, deserves government benefits," he clarified.
Defending the Controversial ‘Bulldozer Model’
On the widely discussed "bulldozer model," Adityanath stated clearly that he views bulldozer actions not as an achievement, but as a necessity. "The bulldozer can help create infrastructure and clear illegal encroachments. I believe we have demonstrated how this tool can be positively utilized."He added confidently that none of the Supreme Court's critical observations regarding bulldozer actions were related to Uttar Pradesh. In fact, Adityanath claimed the apex court has appreciated the state's clear guidelines on using bulldozers.
The remarks by Chief Minister Adityanath reinforce his image as a decisive leader committed to law enforcement, infrastructure, and reform, despite facing frequent criticism from opponents.
