Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has instructed officials to remain vigilant regarding Diwali and upcoming festivals. He stated that the police and intelligence agencies should be kept on high alert so that no anarchic element can spoil the atmosphere. Yogi called for a “Swadeshi Ho Diwali” and emphasized special attention to security, cleanliness, and law and order.
Gorakhpur: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday reviewed the preparations for upcoming festivals with state officials via video conferencing. He instructed that law and order be given top priority during Diwali and other festivals, and that the police and intelligence agencies be kept on full alert mode. The Chief Minister stated that “Swadeshi Ho Diwali” is not just a slogan, but a resolution for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) and a b Uttar Pradesh. He also issued directives to enhance monitoring on cleanliness, traffic, security, and social media, so that Ayodhya's Deepotsav and Kashi's Dev Deepawali can be celebrated in a peaceful and joyful atmosphere.
Emphasis on Swadeshi Diwali
The Chief Minister stated that this year's Diwali should be celebrated with the use of indigenous products. He said that every family makes some purchases during festivals, and this time, these purchases should be of indigenous products. He clarified that "Swadeshi Ho Diwali" is not merely a slogan, but a collective resolution towards 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) and a b Uttar Pradesh.
Yogi Adityanath directed that 'Swadeshi' fairs be organized in every district from October 10. Through these, people will be encouraged to buy indigenous products, and vendors will be motivated to sell indigenous products.
Law and Order and Security
The Chief Minister told officials that senior officers and district administration functionaries should remain active on the ground. He noted that the organization of Durga Puja, Mission Shakti, and Dussehra last month was successfully managed by the administration and police, which strengthened Uttar Pradesh's positive image.
He stated that upcoming festivals are also an opportunity to prove our efficiency and vigilance. Special campaigns should be launched against anarchic elements, and strict action should be ensured against those who tamper with law and order.
Numerous Festivals in October and November
The Chief Minister mentioned the major festivals to be held in the state during October and November. These include Narak Chaturdashi, Diwali, Govardhan Puja, Bhai Dooj, and the great folk festival Chhath. He said that these festivals are not just celebrations, but symbols of our folk culture and collective consciousness.
The Chief Minister directed that festivals in Ayodhya and Kashi be organized in such a way as to ensure security, peace, and a joyful atmosphere. Millions of devotees and tourists participate in these events. Traffic and security arrangements should be of paramount priority on such occasions.
Intelligence Agencies and Police Active
The Chief Minister stated that anti-social and anarchic elements might try to affect security and order during festivals. He instructed that intelligence agencies be kept active and the police force be on alert mode. He reiterated that a zero-tolerance policy should be implemented against those who disturb the peace of the state.
Environment and Firecracker Safety
Yogi Adityanath stated that on the occasion of Diwali, idols of Goddess Lakshmi should be immersed in ponds rather than rivers to maintain water purity. He instructed that firecracker shops and warehouses be kept away from populated areas, adequate fire tenders be arranged, and the use of harmful firecrackers be prohibited. Immediate action should be ensured against violators.
Food Safety and Strict Vigilance Against Adulteration
The Chief Minister directed FSDA (Food Safety and Drug Administration) and the district administration to ensure that there is no adulteration in milk, khoya, paneer, sweets, and other food items. Food products should be tested rapidly. No trader or vendor should be harassed. Immediate action should be taken if found guilty.
Vigilance on Social Media and Rumors
The Chief Minister stated that strict action should be taken against elements inciting caste-based and religious sentiments on social media. He instructed the Home Department to work more effectively on rumors related to drones. Special vigilance should be maintained after Friday prayers.
Cleanliness and Lighting Arrangements
The Chief Minister instructed urban local bodies and the district administration to conduct special cleanliness drives before the festivals. Roads and streets should be clean and well-lit. Problems of waterlogging and filth should be resolved quickly. Spiral lights should be installed in cities and towns to create a grand festive atmosphere.
The Chief Minister instructed to ensure traffic management at major religious places and worship sites. The police and traffic departments should ensure arrangements by coordinating with each other.
