In a sharp political and religious debate unfolding in Uttar Pradesh, Suheldev Bhartiya Samaj Party (SBSP) chief and state minister Om Prakash Rajbhar has come out strongly in defense of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. This comes after Swami Avimukteshwaranand issued a challenge to the CM, demanding he prove his Hindu credentials by declaring the cow as the 'state mother' within 40 days.
Rajbhar Questions Seer's Authority as 'Contractor' of Hinduism
While reviewing preparations for a mega rally in Azamgarh scheduled for February 22, Rajbhar responded to the seer's ultimatum with pointed rhetoric. He questioned whether Swami Avimukteshwaranand considers himself "thekedar" (contractor) of the entire Hindu Dharma, implying that no single individual holds exclusive authority over the faith.
"Any wise person can understand it," Rajbhar stated, referring to the seer's challenge regarding the Kalnemi remark made by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. His comments highlight the ongoing tensions between political figures and religious leaders in the state's complex socio-political landscape.
Constitutional Governance vs. Religious Ultimatums
Rajbhar emphasized that the country and state are governed by the Constitution, not by religious decrees. "Whatever Yogi ji is doing is right. No one is troubling anyone, and if any person tries to take the law into their hands, the law will act," he asserted. This stance underscores the government's commitment to legal frameworks over individual religious demands.
The seer's warning included not only the declaration of the cow as 'state mother' but also a ban on meat exports and a threat to label CM Yogi a fake Sanatani Hindu if he failed to comply. Rajbhar responded by suggesting that if Swami Avimukteshwaranand is a true saint, he should listen to other saints rather than issuing unilateral ultimatums.
Praise for Yogi's Nine-Year Rule and Law and Order
Rajbhar took the opportunity to laud Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's nearly decade-long administration. He highlighted several achievements, including:
- Making Uttar Pradesh riot-free
- Ensuring criminals are jailed within 48 hours
- Instilling fear among wrongdoers through "Baba's bulldozer"—a reference to the government's strict action against illegal properties and criminal elements
These points are central to the ruling party's narrative of improved law and order and governance in the state.
Criticism of Opposition and Political Rivals
In his remarks, Rajbhar did not spare the opposition, launching a scathing attack by claiming that "they drink Pakistan's water" and oppose government initiatives. He specifically mentioned key moves like the construction of the Ram temple and the Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, accusing political rivals of undermining these efforts for partisan gains.
This rhetoric reflects the heightened political atmosphere in Uttar Pradesh, where religious symbolism and governance are increasingly intertwined ahead of significant events like the upcoming mega rally in Azamgarh.
The exchange between Rajbhar and Swami Avimukteshwaranand underscores deeper debates about the role of religion in politics, the authority of religious leaders, and the constitutional principles guiding governance in India's most populous state.
