Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath delivered a heartfelt tribute to former chief minister Kalyan Singh on Monday, marking the late leader's 94th birth anniversary. Speaking at an event in Lucknow, Adityanath emphasized that Singh's tenure would be eternally remembered for establishing good governance, driving development, and advancing a nationalist mission in the state.
A Leader Who Defined His Name Through Service
Adityanath recalled Kalyan Singh, affectionately known as 'Babuji', as a leader who truly lived up to the meaning of his name by dedicating his life to the welfare of Uttar Pradesh. He noted that Singh, who hailed from a farmer's family, imbibed the spirit of nationalism through the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which became the guiding principle of his life.
"Kalyan Singh was the first Chief Minister of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Uttar Pradesh," Yogi stated. "When he assumed office in 1991, the state was grappling with severe disorder, lawlessness, rising criminal and terrorist activities, and deep-rooted mis-governance."
Transforming a State in Crisis
The Chief Minister painted a picture of a state in distress before Singh took charge. Villages, farmers, the poor, youth, and women were all deprived of government scheme benefits, while Hindu society, as per Yogi's address, yearned for freedom from centuries of subjugation.
"In those challenging circumstances, he took charge of the state," Adityanath said. "Within a few months, people across Uttar Pradesh began to feel that the state was moving towards good governance and a new phase of development. This happened despite repeated conspiracies aimed at destabilizing his government and spreading unrest."
Principle Over Power: The Ramjanmabhoomi Sacrifice
One of the most significant highlights of Yogi's speech was Singh's role during the peak of the Ramjanmabhoomi movement. Adityanath praised the former CM for prioritizing devotion and principle over political power.
"Respecting the sentiments of devotees and saints, he did not hesitate to sacrifice his government for Lord Ram," Yogi recounted. He acknowledged that while Singh's government fell as a result, the former leader took full responsibility for fulfilling the historic resolve of ending what he termed a "symbol of slavery," remaining steadfast in his duty.
Adityanath concluded by honoring Singh's extensive public service, which left an indelible mark on the nation. "His dedicated service as an MLA, minister, member of Parliament, chief minister, and governor will be remembered for generations to come," the Chief Minister affirmed, cementing Babuji's legacy as a cornerstone of Uttar Pradesh's modern political history.
