News Brief
Arjun Brij
Mar 05, 2025, 12:12 PM | Updated 12:12 PM IST
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Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while addressing the state assembly on Tuesday (4 March), highlighted the economic benefits of the recent Maha Kumbh, claiming that a single family owning 130 boats had earned Rs 30 crore in just 45 days, reported Financial Express.
He criticised the previous Samajwadi Party government, stating that sailor families had struggled to make a living under their rule.
Adityanath also recalled his visit to Prayagraj for the Maha Kumbh on 27 February, praising the event's impeccable cleanliness and hygiene standards.
The UP CM lauded the contribution of sanitation workers and health staff, and said that he felicitated them for their efforts in ensuring a well-managed gathering.
Responding to accusations from the opposition, particularly after Leader of Opposition Mata Prasad Pandey labelled him “communal,” Adityanath strongly defended both his beliefs and governance.
Citing socialist leader Ram Manohar Lohia, he argued that reverence for Lord Ram, Lord Krishna, and Lord Shiva had historically served as guiding ideals that strengthened national unity.
“You play with India’s religious sentiments and then call our thinking communal. How is it communal?” he asked.
"We believe in inclusive development for all. Our guiding principle is ‘Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramaya’ (May all be happy, may all be free from illness)," he said.
He further criticised the Samajwadi Party, asserting that it had deviated from Lohia’s original socialist principles, which respected India’s spiritual and religious heritage.
Highlighting the success of the Maha Kumbh, the Chief Minister described it as a shining example of India’s inclusive religious harmony, with devotees from over 100 countries participating.
He emphasised that the event transcended caste, sect, and religious divisions, creating a deeply moving spiritual experience for all attendees.
Arjun Brij is an Editorial Associate at Swarajya. He tweets at @arjun_brij