Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath asserted that the safety of Muslims in the state and nationwide is directly linked to the safety of Hindus. In a recent interview commemorating eight years of his administration, CM Adityanath discussed various topics, including Muslim safety concerns, his government’s performance, and the potential for a third term.

When asked about the security of Muslims in Uttar Pradesh, he responded, “Muslims are the safest in Uttar Pradesh. If Hindus are safe, then Muslims are also safe here.” He elaborated, “A Muslim family among 100 Hindu families is secure and free to practice their religion. However, in a reverse scenario—where 50 Hindu families live among 100 Muslim families—they may not feel safe. Countries like Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan exemplify this. We must be vigilant to avoid harm. Post-2017, riots have ceased in UP; now that Hindus are secure, Muslims are also secure.”

Regarding AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi’s claims that Muslims are in danger, he stated, “Muslims are not in danger. Their vote bank politics is what is at risk.” He urged Indian Muslims to remember their heritage, suggesting that once they do, those who exploit them politically would have to reconsider their positions. He also referred to historical connections between India and present-day Pakistan and Bangladesh, noting the existence of Hindu temples in those nations.

Commenting on religious processions during Eid and Ram Navami, Adityanath mentioned that an SOP has been implemented to manage activities, especially concerning noise from religious venues. He highlighted UP’s proactive measures in adhering to Supreme Court guidelines regarding sound control from places of worship.

In reference to mosques being covered with tarpaulin during Holi festivities, he remarked that playing with colors does not harm one’s identity. He emphasized the need for understanding during celebrations and pointed out that many Muslims partake in Holi without issues.

On the excavation activities in Sambhal, he revealed that they are in search of various pilgrimage sites, with 54 sites already identified. He emphasized that Islam teaches respect for Hindu places of worship and condemned the destruction of temples.

Speaking on the Shahi Idgah Mosque-Krishna Janmabhoomi land dispute in Mathura, he reinforced Mathura’s significance as Lord Krishna’s birthplace, urging respect for Hindu heritage while complying with court orders.

Adityanath also addressed criticisms from the Opposition regarding a past Mahakumbh stampede, referencing an ongoing judicial investigation and criticizing remarks made by West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee as disrespectful to national faith.

Commenting on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Yatra, he characterized him as a “specimen” of Indian politics inadvertently aiding the BJP. He accused Gandhi of disparaging various regions of India.

Commenting on recent remarks by Samajwadi Party MP Ramji Lal Suman regarding Rana Sanga, Adityanath noted that glorifying figures like Aurangzeb and Jinnah reflects poorly on one’s values.

He defended the principle of “bulldozer justice,” asserting that individuals should be held accountable in a manner they understand.

Reflecting on his government’s achievements over the past eight years, Adityanath expressed that public satisfaction is the hallmark of success in a democracy. He attributed the support his administration has received as crucial to its accomplishments.

Addressing his ambitions for a third term, he stated, “Seva, Suraksha, Sushasan (Triple S) is the foundation for a government’s continuity. While I am currently the Chief Minister, our party will determine its future leader.” He added that his leadership has seen unprecedented stability, marking his administration as the first after independence to serve two consecutive terms with a two-thirds majority.