Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath delivered a stern warning on Thursday, urging citizens to remain vigilant against individuals attempting to undermine Sanatan Dharma while masquerading as religious leaders and seers. Speaking at the Asht Maan Bhandara of the Nath tradition at Baba Nagewala Dham in Murthal, Sonipat, the CM emphasized the need for societal awareness and proactive measures from spiritual figures to counteract unlawful actions.
Caution Against Deceptive Threats to Sanatan Dharma
In his address, Yogi Adityanath drew a parallel to the mythological demon Kalnemi from the Ramayana, who disguised himself as a sage to obstruct Lord Hanuman from obtaining the Sanjeevani Booti for Lakshman. He accused certain elements of employing similar deceptive tactics to harm Sanatan Dharma under the guise of religious authority. "Society must remain vigilant against unlawful activities, and sages should come forward to counter them," he asserted.
Upholding Dharma and National Integrity
The Chief Minister underscored the paramount importance of dharma and national pride for spiritual leaders. "For a Yogi, saint, or ascetic, nothing is greater than Dharma and the Nation. This alone should be the purpose of life. Such a person has no personal property; dharma is his only wealth and the Nation his self-respect," he stated. He called for open opposition to any challenges against national self-respect, reinforcing the inseparable link between spiritual duty and patriotic commitment.
Strict Action on Love Jihad and Illegal Conversions
Yogi Adityanath issued a firm warning against love jihad, illegal religious conversions, and anti-national conspiracies, vowing to curb such activities completely. He highlighted that any attempts to alter the country's demography or exploit women in the name of love jihad would face stringent legal action. Referencing a 2009 observation by the Kerala High Court, he noted that love jihad had been identified as part of a conspiracy to transform Kerala into an Islamic state, with similar patterns emerging in various states across India.
Revival of Family Values and Cultural Consciousness
Expressing concern over the gradual decline of the joint family system, the CM stressed the necessity of revitalizing familial bonds and cultural heritage. He articulated that family, values, and cultural awareness are foundational to nation-building. "Dharma not only provides a method of worshipping but is also a path of upliftment and progress," he added, linking spiritual practices with societal advancement.
Praise for Nath Tradition and India's Resurgence
Yogi Adityanath lauded the Nath Panth as one of India's most ancient spiritual traditions, highlighting its role in fostering social unity and purposeful living. He connected this heritage with contemporary developments under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, stating that the vision of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ is materializing. "After enduring nearly a thousand years of foreign invasions, India has broken the chains of slavery and is moving again toward its former glory," he remarked.
Examples of Cultural and Spiritual Revival
The CM cited the redevelopment of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham and the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya as emblematic of India's resurgence. He noted the peaceful influx of millions of devotees to Ayodhya and Prayagraj, with record participation in the Magh Mela this year. "This era and the next 1,000 years belong to India," he proclaimed, urging collective efforts to elevate Sanatan Dharma to its highest glory.
Strong Stance Against Drugs and Environmental Protection
Yogi Adityanath also addressed the issue of drug trafficking, alleging that adversaries of India, unable to confront the government, armed forces, and police directly, are resorting to pushing narcotics across borders to destabilize the nation. He appealed to the public to reject such activities and support anti-drug initiatives. Additionally, he commended Haryana's efforts to rejuvenate the Saraswati river, emphasizing that no one has the right to pollute rivers, thus linking environmental conservation with national well-being.
