In a strong address delivered in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath issued a stern warning against the resurgence of casteist and dynastic political forces in the state. Speaking at a public gathering after inaugurating key infrastructure projects, the CM asserted that whenever Uttar Pradesh strides forward on the path of progress, such regressive elements attempt to derail the developmental momentum.
UP Sheds Its 'BIMARU' Image, Emerges as a Breakthrough State
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted that Uttar Pradesh has decisively moved beyond its old 'BIMARU' label—a term historically used to describe underdeveloped states. He emphasized that the state has now carved out a new identity as a breakthrough region, a transformation that casteist and dynastic forces find intolerable. These are the same forces that earlier patronised rioters and lawlessness, they used to bow before them, the CM remarked, pointing to past instabilities.
Firm Stance Against Disruptive Elements
The Chief Minister warned that such forces might try to resurface, driven by leaders who push them to create chaos and riots for monetary gains. But they also know what UP government does with rioters, he declared, underscoring the administration's zero-tolerance policy towards unrest. Adityanath proudly stated that Uttar Pradesh is no longer 'Upadrav Pradesh' (a state of turmoil) but has transformed into 'Utsav Pradesh' (a state of festivals and celebrations).
Infrastructure Inaugurations Mark Development Milestones
The public address followed the inauguration of two significant infrastructure projects in Gorakhpur:
- The Khajanchi Chauraha flyover, constructed at a cost of Rs 96.50 crore.
- The Bargadwa-Nakaha rail over bridge, built with an investment of Rs 152.19 crore.
These projects symbolize the state's commitment to enhancing connectivity and urban development.
Recalling the Pre-2017 Era of Fear and Chaos
Reflecting on the period before 2017, CM Yogi painted a grim picture of Uttar Pradesh gripped by fear, terror, chaos, disease, and frequent riots. He attributed this volatile environment to leaders who practiced caste-based politics, prioritized familial interests, and jeopardized the future of the state's youth. They created an identity crisis for the state and its young population, he added, contrasting it with the current scenario.
Post-2017 Focus on Solutions and Security
Since 2017, the state government has shifted its focus from problems to solutions, according to the Chief Minister. He stressed that ensuring a bright future for coming generations requires sustaining the development journey and fortifying the security environment. The double-engine government—referring to the same party ruling at both state and central levels—has catalyzed an investment boom by prioritizing security and robust infrastructure.
Massive Investments and Employment Generation
By converting scale into skill, the government is providing employment opportunities to youth within their own regions. Adityanath revealed that investment proposals worth Rs 45 lakh crore have materialized, creating jobs for over 1.5 crore young people in Uttar Pradesh. This economic upliftment is a cornerstone of the state's new developmental narrative.
Gorakhpur's Transformation: From Mafia to Modernity
The Chief Minister pointed to Gorakhpur as a microcosm of Uttar Pradesh's broader transformation. Once synonymous with mafia, mosquitoes, and encephalitis, the city is now recognized for its world-class roads and infrastructure. Key markers of this change include:
- Four-lane connectivity and link expressways.
- Gorakhpur Industrial Development Authority (GIDA) emerging as an investment hub.
- Establishment of fertilizer plants, AIIMS, and improved road networks connecting Gorakhpur to Sonauli, Lucknow, and Varanasi.
Ramgarh Tal, once a breeding ground for criminals and mosquitoes, has become a new identity for the city, Adityanath noted. Gorakhpur is evolving into a skill hub, contributing to the national vision of a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India).
Development as a Universal Legacy
In his concluding remarks, the Chief Minister emphasized that development should no longer be the exclusive legacy of any single family or region. It must be inclusive and widespread, benefiting all sections of society and every corner of Uttar Pradesh. This vision aligns with the state's ongoing efforts to foster equitable growth and prosperity.