Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the long-ignored issue of political Islam at an event in Gorakhpur on Tuesday, stating it has inflicted significant blows to the Sanatan Dharma. He criticized historical narratives that prioritize colonialism while neglecting the ideological battles fought by Hindu ancestors against political Islam.
“Great warriors like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Guru Gobind Singh, Maharana Pratap, and Maharana Sanga dedicated their lives to combat political Islam,” Adityanath remarked at the ‘Vichar-Parivar Kutumb Sneh Milan’ and ‘Deepotsav Se Rashtrotsav’. These programs mark the centenary year of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Adityanath accused historians of overlooking this critical aspect, emphasizing, “Our ancestors waged major struggles, but this crucial element remains largely unaddressed.” He credited the RSS for its role in constructing the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, a project he described as symbolic of Hindu resilience.
The chief minister expressed concern over ongoing activities that promote political Islam, alleging that these actions are often disguised. “While we discuss resistance against British and French colonialism, we should also confront the ideological threat of political Islam,” he asserted.
During the event, he criticized political parties questioning the Ram Temple’s construction, affirming that RSS volunteers persevered despite facing violence and restrictions. “Today, the magnificent Ram Temple stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment,” he added.
Furthermore, Adityanath shared that the Uttar Pradesh government has enacted a ban on Halal-certified products, claiming that the profits derived from such sales could potentially finance conversion efforts, love jihad, and terrorism.
Highlighting the RSS centenary’s initiatives, the chief minister outlined five transformative goals: fostering social harmony, reinforcing family values, protecting the environment, promoting self-reliance through indigenous goods, and instilling civic responsibility. He termed these initiatives as foundational to a developed India.
“For a developed society, society must lead, and the government must follow,” Adityanath emphasized. This framework aims to inspire citizens toward building a ‘Viksit Bharat’.
In summary, Chief Minister Adityanath’s remarks shine a stark light on the ongoing debate about political Islam and its historical impact on Hindu faith and identity in India. His call to recognize the sacrifices of past heroes against this ideological threat underscores the need for a more inclusive historical narrative.
