CM is not above law, is a servant rather than master: Yogi

Lucknow, Mar 23  Reacting on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's arrest, Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath strongly asserted on Saturday that adherence to the law is paramount for everyone, regardless of their position or influence.
During a discussion on a private news channel, Yogi said, "In our nation, democracy prevails, allowing individuals like Arvind Kejriwal to repeatedly hold the position of the CM in Delhi. However, democracy does not allow any person, party, or organisation to commit 'dacoity'."
He underscored the role of a CM as a public servant rather than the owner of the state. "Our work is that of a public servant and custodian," he said.
The CM further emphasised the importance of equal treatment under the law, stating that even he would be subject to legal consequences if found in violation of regulations. "It is wrong if any person or government starts considering itself above the law. Enforcement Directorate (ED) is an independent regulatory body and Kejriwal's case is in the court, now only the court will decide it," he said.
Crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the people of UP for driving transformative changes in the state, he said, "Today, UP's image, both nationally and internationally, has undergone a significant transformation. The perception of the state has changed completely. Before 2017, the people here grappled with an identity crisis, experiencing frequent communal disturbances. Safety for women and businessmen was a concern, and the security situation was dire," he said.
Criticising the previous administrations, Yogi said, "Previous governments prioritised familial interests and fuelled caste-based divisions, neglecting broader societal welfare. However, today, it is the new UP of New India, emerging as a leading economic powerhouse. The state has attracted substantial investment, and it is at the forefront of infrastructure development efforts, demonstrating a commitment to progress and prosperity."
He expressed confidence that UP would surpass its previous performance in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. He highlighted that his government's seven-year tenure is nearing completion, during which three years were significantly impacted by the global pandemic, Covid.
The CM said, "Despite this, we were successful in doubling the GDP of UP. Today, UP has become a revenue-surplus state. Before 2017, the state did not even have money to pay salaries to the employees. No big bank would give us money."
Reiterating the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) commitment to development over divisive politics, he emphasised their respect for people's faith. "We do not impose curfew, we pave the way for the Kanwar Yatra. There is a lot of potential in spiritual tourism in UP," he said.
Yogi said that he has visited Ayodhya, Mathura, and Kashi more frequently than any other CM. "This is why there has been a 100 times increase in opportunities between Ayodhya before 2017 and Ayodhya now, leading to employment for lakhs of people," he said.
Terming the Budaun incident as gruesome, he said, "The bulldozer operates not only against the unjust and oppressors but also for infrastructure development."
On the topic of encounters in the state, the CM assured that the police adhere to the established protocols. "If anyone harasses the daughter and the businessman, whatever measures are necessary will be taken to establish the rule of law," he said.
He said, "We cannot tamper with the Hindu faith, perhaps this is why we haven't secured a place in the minds of Muslims. In India, we have to respect the original soul of this place. Hindu is the basic soul of India. It cannot be insulted. If anyone assumes we will engage in politics by disrespecting this sentiment, they are mistaken. We cannot compromise on national security or reverence for Hindu faith. We are blessed by God and supported by the people."
Regarding the paper leak issue, Yogi emphasised that stringent measures have been implemented. He reiterated that severe action will be taken against those who jeopardise the future of the youth.
Regarding Azam Khan's case, he said that due to his actions, he has been punished by the court. "The judiciary of India is independent," he said.
Regarding the modernisation of madrasas, the CM said, "While Shariat may remain a personal subject for some, it cannot supersede the Constitution. We are prioritising the modernisation of madrassas. We require scientists, engineers, and skilled professionals. Our educational system needs to evolve to meet these demands."
Commenting on the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Congress alliance, he said that such alliances have occurred previously. "The people of the state have already taught them a lesson. That's why Rahul and Priyanka lack the courage to come to UP. False promises won't deceive the people anymore.
BJP and its allies are poised to deliver their strongest performance in UP. This election, whose results the entire nation awaits, will reaffirm the country's trust in Modi's leadership. The results will be declared on June 4 and Modi ji will assume the Prime Minister's office for the third time," he said.
He also asserted that the party maintains a strong presence in Karnataka, Telangana and Maharashtra. Additionally, he anticipated significant gains in Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala, where the BJP had previously lagged behind.
Regarding Bahujan Samaj Party, Yogi said, "It possesses a distinct voter base, with its leader Mayawati having served as the state's CM thrice. Should the BSP lose influence, BJP stands to gain. In 2019, SP and BSP formed a coalition to test their strength."