NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday drew a parallel between the incidents of violence in Sambhal and unrest in Bangladesh, saying that “the nature and their DNA are the same.”
Speaking at the inauguration of the Ramayan Mela at Ram Katha Park in Ayodhya, he pointed out the historical and cultural significance of unity while reminding against forces that seek to disrupt harmony.
Referring to the events in Sambhal, UP CM said, “Remember what Babar’s men did in Ayodhya Kumbh 500 years ago. The same thing happened in Sambhal, and the same is happening in Bangladesh. The nature of the three and their DNA is the same.”
He added, “Some people talking about this have properties abroad. If a crisis happens here, they will flee, leaving others to suffer. They are fully prepared to break the social unity in our country.”
Uttar Pradesh CM also praised the efforts of PM Narendra Modi in facilitating the reconstruction of the Ram Temple. “Once again, Ayodhya is moving ahead with a new identity as a global city spiritually and culturally. Remember how, in January this year, due to the efforts of PM Narendra Modi, Lord Ram has been seated in the temple again after 500 years.”
He stressed the importance of respecting cultural values, saying, “Anyone who does not respect Lord Ram and Mata Janaki, no matter how dear they are to you, should be abandoned like an enemy.”
Tensions in Sambhal brewed after a court-ordered survey of a Mughal-era mosque on November 19, after claims that a Harihar temple once stood on the site.
The situation turned violent during a second survey on November 24, as protesters gathered near the Shahi Jama Masjid and clashed with security forces. The violence left four people dead and several others injured.
Earlier this week, Yogi Adityanath made his stance clear on law and order while reviewing the situation in Sambhal earlier this week. “No one should be allowed to spread anarchy in any district of the state. Ensure that not even a single rioter from Sambhal is spared,” he instructed officials.
