Lok Sabha Elections: Yogi Adityanath slams Congress manifesto, rakes up 'jizya'; likens it to Aurangzeb's rule

Adityanath further accused the Congress of attempting to divert quota benefits from marginalised communities to its vote banks, citing instances in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on May 4, slammed the Congress manifesto, alleging that it discussed the imposition of 'jizya' (a tax from medieval India imposed on non-Muslims), and advocated for cow slaughter, drawing parallels to the rule of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. CM Adityanath accused the Congress of intending to revoke quota benefits for SC, STs, and OBCs to appease its vote bank.

Speaking at a rally in Ashok Nagar town of Guna Lok Sabha constituency in support of BJP candidate and Union Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia, Adityanath praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership for honouring faith, implementing welfare schemes for the poor, and bringing pride to the country.

He condemned Congress for proposing an inheritance tax, linking it to the jizya tax, and strongly criticised Rahul Gandhi's suggestion of a "virasat tax" (inheritance tax). Adityanath asserted that no Indian would accept such measures.

"You have heard the name of a cruel Mughal ruler called Aurangzeb. Decent Muslim families don't name their children after him. He levied jizya. What is it? It is inheritance tax being talked about by the Congress" said the Uttar Pradesh CM.

Adityanath further accused the Congress of attempting to divert quota benefits from marginalised communities to its vote banks, citing instances in Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.

He also questioned the party's stance on cow slaughter and beef consumption, alleging that it supports these practices. CM Adityanath emphasised the shared food habits among communities but stressed the opposition to cow slaughter among the majority.

The Chief Minister rallied the crowd, urging them to reject such policies, particularly in the land of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna. He praised PM Modi for initiatives like the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and counterterrorism efforts, highlighting Pakistan's responsiveness under PM Modi's leadership.

CM Adityanath also lauded the historical contributions of the Scindia family and emphasized the need for development in Guna. Union Minister Scindia, addressing the gathering, highlighted developmental works in Guna and warned against corruption and the land mafia in Ashok Nagar.

The Guna constituency is scheduled to vote on May 7.