Yogi Adityanath justifies banning namaz on streets: 'Roads are meant for walking'

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath described the state administration's decision to ban namaz on roads as right, adding that people should learn discipline from devotees who came to Prayagraj during Maha Kumbh.

In an interview with PTI,  Yogi highlighted how 66 crore devotees attended the Maha Kumbh without any incidents of violence, harassment, or disorder.

"Roads are meant for walking and those who are saying.... should learn discipline from Hindus. 66 crore people came to Prayagraj... there was no looting anywhere, no arson anywhere, no molestation anywhere, no vandalism anywhere, no kidnapping anywhere, this is discipline, this is religious discipline. They came with reverence, participated in the 'Mahasnan', and then moved towards their destination. Festivals and celebrations or any such events should not become a medium for insolence. If you want convenience, then learn to follow that discipline as well," he told PTI.

Last week, Meerut police had issued a directive saying this year's Eid namaz in the city will be restricted only to designated places such as the nearest mosques and the ground at Faiz-e-Aam inter college. The polic had said violators will face strict legal action that may lead to their passports getting cancelled and driving licences revoked.

To ensure compliance, sensitive areas were reportedly monitored through drones and CCTV cameras. The police will also keep a close watch on social media, and strict action will be taken against those spreading rumors.

Reacting to the police action, Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary expressed his disagreement on social media. In a tweet, he said, “Policing towards Orwellian 1984!”

Regarding his tweet, the minister said, “I believe the police should not say that they will confiscate passports. The administration can enforce the rule of keeping roads clear, but they should engage in a sensitive dialogue with the community to ensure compliance.”