UP CM Yogi Adityanath condemns Congress and NC bid to restore Articles 370, 35A in J&K

LUCKNOW: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday launched a scathing attack on Opposition parties for attempting to divide the country on the basis of caste and religion. Speaking during Chhath Puja celebrations at Lakshman Mela ground in Lucknow, the CM said that the recent attempt by Congress and the National Conference to restore Articles 370 and 35A would plunge Kashmir back into the "flames of terrorism."

"They are unable to envision the development of Jammu and Kashmir and a bright future for its children. The nation will never accept their divisive policies. All 140 crore Indians are committed to the unity and integrity of the country and are ready to give a fitting response to anyone who challenges it," the CM said, adding that if Congress did not oppose the NC's proposal made in the J&K Assembly, it would face the same fate as Articles 370 and 35A.

The CM blamed Article 370 for the violence that rocked Kashmir, leading to the killings of Kashmiri Pandits. He said that even though Congress claimed it was a temporary provision, it was Prime Minister Narendra Modi who was able to remove it.

Others rule over us when we are divided by caste & religion: CM

On Aug 5, 2019, Prime Minister Modi decisively eradicated terrorism in the Kashmir Valley b y abolishing Articles 370 and 35A. This historic decision, approved by Parliament, eliminated Jammu and Kashmir’s special status from the Constitution. The world then witnessed a new, powerful India—peaceful but resolute in defending itself,” he said.

“Today, Kashmir is on a new path of development, with educational institutions, hospitals, and industries being established. Where lakhs were once forced to flee the state, PM Modi has now provided security and abolished Article 370, which was the root of massacres, terrorism, and violence in the valley. It is stained with the blood of Kashmiri Pandits and turned Kashmir's fragrance and paradise into religious frenzy, disrupting social harmony,” he said.

At the event organised by the All India Bhojpuri Society, Yogi elaborated on the significance of Chhath, linking it with the need to maintain the unity and integrity of the nation. “When we are divided by caste and religion, others rule over us. While we come together through these festivals, some individuals living in India are undermining the country’s essence. No true Indian should tolerate this. But when we, 140 crores strong, speak in unison, no force can challenge us,” he said.

Greeting the audience on the occasion of Chhath in Bhojpuri, the CM expressed his respect for women observing the rigorous fast. He highlighted India ’s unique cultural position in the world, with the Bhojpuri community having established a distinct identity for itself.

Describing Chhath as a pan-Indian festival, the CM stated that it strengthens the heritage of Indian culture globally. Festivals like Chhath provide an opportunity to take pride in our cultural heritage, the CM said, adding that this festival is an occasion to worship the Sun, who is considered a symbol of life in Indian culture. “Through Chhath Mahaparv, we express gratitude to the Sun God and convey a message of linking the sanctity of this festival with patriotism,” he said.

On this occasion, man y dignitaries, including deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak, Legislative Council member Govind Narayan Shukla, chief secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, and national president of Bhojpuri Samaj Prabhunath Rai, were present.


Stay updated with the latest local news from your city on Times of India (TOI). Check upcoming bank holidays, public holidays, and current gold rates and silver prices in your area.