On the 350th Martyrdom Day of Guru Tegh Bahadur, CM Yogi Adityanath took a strict stance on cases of religious conversion. He stated that the government is taking action and all citizens must remain vigilant.
CM Yogi Adityanath: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath flagged off the "Tegh Bahadur Sandesh Yatra" from his official residence, which was to depart from Lucknow for Delhi. This historic yatra has been organized on the occasion of the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur. The yatra will commence from Lucknow and pass through Kanpur, Etawah, and Agra before reaching Gurudwara Shri Sheesh Ganj Sahib in Chandni Chowk, Delhi.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister shed light on the Sri Guru Granth Sahib and also spoke on social and religious issues. He expressed serious concern regarding religious conversions occurring in the country and the state, calling it a deep conspiracy.
CM Yogi's stern warning on religious conversion
The Chief Minister stated that the religious conversion of Hindus and Sikhs is being carried out in a planned manner in the country and the state. Rates have been fixed for this work. He clearly stated that the government is very serious about this issue and strict action is being taken against the culprits. He also appealed to the general public to be vigilant and advised them to immediately inform the administration of any suspicious activity.
CM Yogi, specifically mentioning incidents targeting Hindu women, said that this is an attack on cultural and religious existence and will not be tolerated at all.
Emphasis on religious tolerance and national unity
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, recalling the sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur, said that he sacrificed his life to protect Sanatan Dharma. His life is a symbol of communal harmony, tolerance, and religious freedom in India. He said that even today, there is a need to keep India united with the inspiration of that sacrifice.
The CM said that India's diversity is its strength and that attempts to break it will be thwarted with full force. Describing this message yatra as a 'symbol of sacrifice, peace, and national unity,' he said that this yatra is a powerful medium to connect the new generation with its history and values.
Comparison to the era of Aurangzeb
The Chief Minister, in his address, also mentioned history and recalled the reign of Aurangzeb. He said that Aurangzeb's aim was to promote Islamization in India and Guru Tegh Bahadur became the biggest obstacle in his path. His sacrifice gave a new direction to religious freedom. CM Yogi said that today, when the country is once again facing such threats, we also need the same courage and determination that Guru Tegh Bahadur showed.
Plans for programs at religious places in Uttar Pradesh
The Chief Minister also announced that special programs will be organized at places associated with Guru Tegh Bahadur in Uttar Pradesh. Through these programs, people will be made aware of his sacrifice and teachings. He spoke of planning the event in collaboration with the Delhi Gurudwara Management Committee.
Awareness among the public
The Chief Minister said that the government cannot do everything alone. Society also has to be vigilant. He said that if anyone gets any information about religious conversion or forced religious conversion, they should immediately inform the administration. He said that the law will do its work, but the active participation of the society is necessary.