ARABIAN TIMES NEWS NETWORK
In a strongly worded statement that has stirred the political debate, Samajwadi Party’s Maharashtra Chief Abu Asim Azmi commented on the ongoing Kanwar Yatra and its security in Uttar Pradesh. Speaking to the media, Azmi emphasized that no one has the courage to disrupt the Kanwar Yatra, a deeply revered religious journey undertaken by Shiva devotees during the holy month of Shravan.
He questioned the very idea that such a religious procession could be interrupted, rhetorically asking, “Who can disrupt it? Has the police ceased to exist? Isn’t the police present there?” Highlighting the state’s law and order mechanism, Azmi underscored that Uttar Pradesh is under the governance of a strong BJP-led administration and that Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath referred to by him as “our Yogi Baba Ji” is personally monitoring the situation.
“The police is there, the BJP government is in power in Uttar Pradesh, and it is firmly in control,” Azmi stated. He praised the arrangements and enthusiasm shown during the Kanwar Yatra, where flower petals are traditionally showered upon the devotees as a gesture of welcome and reverence.
However, his remarks took a controversial turn when he said, “There should be no Muslim roadside eateries on that route.” The statement has sparked widespread criticism from various quarters, with many questioning the communal undertone of singling out a specific community’s businesses. Rights groups and opposition leaders have urged political figures to promote harmony during such religious events rather than make divisive remarks.
Azmi also demanded that strict action be taken against anyone who tries to obstruct the Kanwar Yatra. “Strict punishment must be ensured. No one should be allowed to disrupt the faith and devotion of the Kanwariyas,” he insisted. While Azmi’s intention appeared to be in support of maintaining law and order during the yatra, critics argue that his statements risk deepening communal divides, especially at a time when the focus should be on unity and cooperation.
The Kanwar Yatra, which sees millions of pilgrims traveling on foot to collect holy water from the Ganges, continues to be one of the largest religious processions in India. Security remains tight, and the state administration has urged citizens to maintain peace and respect all communities.
