Our Political Desk
In a candid and impactful interview, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made his intentions clear regarding reclaiming lands under the Waqf Board. This conversation occurred ahead of the Mahakumbh during a discussion with Republic Media Network’s Editor-in-Chief, Arnab Goswami.
Despite Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Chief Mohan Bhagwat’s advice against turning every religious place into a “temple-mosque” controversy, Yogi Adityanath sent a stern message to the so-called Waqf “land mafia” while addressing various topics, including Sanatan Dharma, Hindu unity, and the historical Sambhal issue.
In the interview, Yogi Adityanath referred to the Waqf Board as the “Mafia Board” and pledged to reclaim every inch of land allegedly encroached upon under its name. The Chief Minister described the issue as an “abscess” that required surgical intervention to heal old wounds. “Old wounds need treatment, or they will become cancer. One surgery is necessary, no matter how big the abscess,” he remarked.
He accused the Waqf Board of encroaching on lands, including those significant to Hindu traditions, such as those used for the Maha Kumbh Mela. Yogi assured that reclaimed lands would be utilized for the welfare of the poor.
Highlighting the supremacy of Sanatan Dharma, Yogi Adityanath dismissed comparisons with other religions and organizations like the Waqf Board. He said, “Sanatan Dharma is more than 5,000 years old, limitless like the sky and ocean, and cannot be compared to religions that are not even 500 years old.” He emphasized the enduring and universal nature of Sanatan Dharma while labeling the Waqf Board as a symbol of encroachment and divisive practices.
The firebrand BJP leader also took sharp jabs at the Opposition, calling them “danavs and asurs” for indulging in divisive politics. He criticized leaders for tarnishing the government’s image and for their alleged lack of moral integrity, saying, “Those dining in foreign plates cannot be called Hindus.”
Yogi Adityanath accused Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav of exploiting the name of socialist icon Ram Manohar Lohia for political gains while ignoring his teachings. He stated, “Lohia ji emphasized avoiding the greed for wealth and progeny, and understanding India through the study of Lord Ram, Lord Krishna, and Lord Shankar. The SP’s actions betray Lohia ji’s core principles.”
On the issue of Sambhal, Yogi alleged that past rulers systematically Islamized the region, destroying Hindu cultural and religious symbols. He referred to historical records such as Ain-i-Akbari to claim that Lord Vishnu’s temple in Sambhal was destroyed and replaced by a mosque. “Mir Banki, who destroyed the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, also vandalized Lord Vishnu’s temple in Sambhal,” he stated.
Yogi Adityanath’s remarks underline his position as a leader intent on addressing historical grievances while asserting his vision of Hindu unity and cultural reclamation. His outspoken criticism of the Waqf Board, the Opposition, and historical injustices reinforces his reputation as a politician who does not shy away from controversial issues, even while walking the tightrope of governance and ideology.
