Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath asserted that discussions about colonialism often overshadow the significant effects of “political Islam” on Hindu beliefs. Speaking at an event in Gorakhpur on Tuesday, he emphasized that this aspect of history has largely gone unrecognized.
Adityanath stated that historical figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Guru Gobind Singh, Maharana Pratap, and Maharana Sanga fought against the forces of political Islam, highlighting their crucial battles for the preservation of Sanatan Dharma. His comments came during the ‘Vichar-Parivar Kutumb Sneh Milan’ and ‘Deepotsav Se Rashtrotsav’ programs held in celebration of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) centenary.
“Our ancestors endured great struggles against political Islam, yet this vital part of our history remains largely overlooked,” Adityanath remarked. He also praised the RSS for its instrumental role in the construction of the Ram temple in Ayodhya, stressing the ideological battle against these forces.
In his address, he pointed out that whereas colonial resistance finds significant discourse, the ideological threats from political Islam often escape attention. “There is substantial talk of British colonialism and French colonialism, but little mention of political Islam, which undermined our faith,” he reiterated.
Adityanath acknowledged the challenges faced by the RSS over its 100-year journey, highlighting commitments made in the face of political opposition. “While members of the Samajwadi Party, Congress, and the INDIA bloc debated the Ram temple, RSS volunteers remained resolute in their belief that it would be built,” he said, emphasizing the sacrifices their members made.
He urged attendees to recognize that political Islam continues to manifest in various forms, which he categorized as dangerous to societal harmony. Furthermore, Adityanath stated that Uttar Pradesh has implemented a ban on the sale of Halal-certified goods, claiming that proceeds from these sales contribute to activities related to ‘conversion, love jihad, and terrorism.’
While addressing the RSS centenary initiatives, the Chief Minister outlined five transformative aspects vital for a developed India: social harmony, strong family values, environmental protection, self-reliance through indigenous products, and civic responsibility. He described these elements as foundational for building a ‘Viksit Bharat’ or developed nation.
“For societal progress, the community must lead, and the government must actively follow. This interaction lays the groundwork for development,” he asserted.
Adityanath’s remarks come at a time when political discourse around faith, identity, and history continues to influence collective memory and contemporary societal dynamics in India. As the nation progresses, understanding the implications of historical narratives remains crucial for fostering unity and social cohesion.
