Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 222 development projects worth ₹659 crore during his visit to Bahjoi in the Sambhal district on Thursday.
Addressing a large public gathering, the Chief Minister focused on the region’s religious and cultural significance, historical injustices, and his government's development initiatives.
Highlighting Sambhal’s spiritual importance, CM Yogi described it as a symbol of Hindu faith and stressed the need to restore its lost religious heritage. He strongly criticized historical invaders and political adversaries, stating, "Those who sin with Sambhal will face severe punishment for their actions."
He traced the historical roots of the area, revealing that Sambhal once had "68 pilgrimage sites, 19 holy wells, and parikrama routes," which he said were "desecrated and destroyed" by foreign invaders. "A despicable attempt was made to erase the truth," he said, vowing that his government would renovate the lost sites and wells.
Drawing a parallel with Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar, CM Yogi added that "just as she renovated the Kashi Vishwanath and Somnath temples, the pilgrimage sites of Sambhal will also be revived."
He underscored that development should be intrinsically linked to heritage, stating that it is not only preservation but also a "campaign to realize the golden dreams of the present and future."
The Chief Minister highlighted the religious relevance of Sambhal, referring to it as the joint darshan site of Hari (Vishnu) and Har (Shiva), where Lord Kalki, the 10th incarnation of Vishnu, is believed to appear.
Referring to ancient scriptures, he said, "Sambhal is discussed in the Shrimad Bhagwat Mahapuran, Skanda Purana, and Vishnu Purana, and will be the center for Lord Kalki's incarnation in Kaliyug."
Acknowledging that some may view the topic as controversial, CM Yogi countered, "Individuals with a controversial background often perceive controversy in Hindu traditions. However, this cannot be a subject of controversy." He firmly warned against those "who try to make Hindu heritage controversial," stating such acts "would be crushed."
He cited the government’s restoration efforts in Kashi and Ayodhya, questioning, "If Kashi and Ayodhya can be revived, then why not Sambhal?" Reaffirming the administration’s dedication, he pledged to revive Lord Kalki and Harihar Dham.
Targeting political rivals, CM Yogi alleged, "Remember the sins SP and Congress have committed with Sambhal. Congress orchestrated mass murders here, and as its disciple, SP worked to protect the murderers." He added, "If the truth of the massacres that occurred post-independence had been revealed, their vote bank would have been at risk." He emphasized his government’s motive is not political, but for the "protection of heritage," asserting, "Those who seek to tarnish India and its essence will be taught such a lesson that future generations will remember whom they have clashed with."
Addressing past law and order concerns, CM Yogi remarked that "riots, anarchy, and exploitation were rampant" under previous regimes, stating that now "every resident of Uttar Pradesh is safe, not just the rioters." He added, "Mahakaal's effect is now evident, as he is transforming their speed into misery."
Reinforcing his stance, he stated, "Those who sin against Sambhal will be punished for their sins. Those who obstruct the development of Sambhal will have to pay the price. Those who desecrate the holy places of Sanatan Dharma will have to pay the price."
Outlining his government’s achievements, the Chief Minister said 8.5 lakh jobs have been created over the last eight years, including 60,200 new police recruitments. He compared his administration's policies to those of previous governments, accusing them of fostering “a single mafia in each district,” whereas his government is promoting economic growth through the ‘One District One Product’ initiative. He also cited efforts like housing schemes, free ration distribution, support for daughters’ marriages, and enhanced healthcare services for the underprivileged.
Ahead of upcoming national celebrations, CM Yogi invoked patriotism, referring to Raksha Bandhan, Kakori Train Action Memorial Day (9 August), Independence Day (15 August), and Shri Krishna Janmashtami (16 August). He called on people to "hoist the tricolor in support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call."
Applauding the resilience of Sambhal’s citizens, CM Yogi said they had endured past riots but never gave in. He assured that the “double-engine government” is fully dedicated to both development and heritage preservation.
The 222 projects launched during the visit include initiatives in education, vocational training, clean drinking water, road infrastructure, Anganwadi centers, and composite schools. The Chief Minister also conducted Annaprashan Sanskar for newborns, visited an exhibition at the venue, and laid the foundation for the District Magistrate Office and Integrated Residential Buildings in Sambhal.
He further reviewed archaeological findings from excavations in the region and emphasized environmental conservation by planting saplings. Additionally, CM Yogi launched the Sambhal Samvad App, distributed cheques, house keys, and certificates to beneficiaries, and honored individuals for their societal contributions.
