CM: Zero-tolerance for crime, graft paved way for ‘Ram Rajya’ in UP

Gorakhpur: Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday reiterated his govt's commitment to ensure security and good governance, asserting that the state is progressing towards the ideal of "Ram Rajya" with zero-tolerance policy against crime and corruption.Referring to the Ram temple, he said what several generations never witnessed is now a reality.Extending greetings to people on Chaitra Navratri and Ram Navami after performing ‘Kanya Pujan' at the Gorakhnath Temple, the CM said the govt is working to ensure that welfare schemes reach every section without discrimination.The CM described Ram Navami as a sacred occasion symbolising prosperity and spiritual fulfilment, noting that Lord Ram continues to inspire generations through his ideal life and values. He also referred to the construction of the grand Ram temple and the consecration ceremony held on Jan 22, 2024, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling it a moment of pride for millions of devotees. Yogi noted that PM Modi hoisted a saffron flag at the temple on Nov 25 last year, symbolising the pride of Sanatan Dharm.The chief minister added that President Droupadi Murmu visited the temple during Navratri on March 19 and installed the Shri Ram Yantra on the upper floor, marking the completion of key phases of the project.He said devotees across the country and the world have witnessed these historic developments firsthand, experiencing immense joy and spiritual fulfilment. "Every follower of Sanatan Dharm today feels blessed in their birth and life. What several generations could not witness, people in the present era have seen with their own eyes," he said.Highlighting achievements, he said that under the guidance of PM Modi, more than 6 crore people have been lifted above the poverty line in the past decade. Emphasising women's empowerment, the chief minister said initiatives like Mission Shakti, along with schemes such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Mukhyamantri Kanya Sumangala Yojana, are aimed at ensuring safety, dignity and self-reliance of women. He added that 20% reservation for women in the Uttar Pradesh Police has been implemented, with over 44,000 women personnel currently serving in the force.Following the Gorakshpeeth tradition, the CM washed the feet of nine young girls, who symbolised the nine forms of Goddess Durga, offered prayers, draped them with chunris, and performed aarti. He also served food to the girls and presented them with gifts and ‘dakshina', seeking their blessings. After ‘Kanya Pujan', the CM went to the Ram Darbar inside the Gorakhnath Temple, where he offered prayers to the installed deities on the occasion of Ram Navami. The idol of Ram Lalla, adorned and placed in a flower-decked cradle, was worshipped amid Vedic chants at noon, symbolising the moment of Lord Ram's birth.