AYODHYA: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on July 10 sharply criticized the Congress and Samajwadi Party while visiting Ayodhya. He accused them of harming the city’s religious heritage and delaying the Ram Temple project. Referring to an earlier dispute about prayers at Hanumangarhi, he asked whether those parties would allow recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa at Jama Masjid in Delhi. He stated that his administration had revived Ayodhya’s cultural identity and turned it into a major destination for faith and growth.
Speaking at a public event, the Chief Minister claimed the opposition parties had permitted prayers on the steps of Hanumangarhi temple. He questioned their willingness to permit similar religious activity at Jama Masjid and asked who had allowed the earlier prayers at the Ayodhya site.
His comments occurred during ongoing debate over alleged theft of donations at the Ram Temple, which has increased political tension in the state. While opposition groups demanded answers on the missing funds, the Chief Minister blamed previous governments for neglecting Ayodhya and resisting religious and infrastructure projects.
He noted that since 2017 Ayodhya has regained its role as a cultural center under the current administration. He credited divine blessings and listed projects such as the Maharishi Valmiki International Airport, improved roads, restored ghats and new tourism facilities as proof of progress.
The Chief Minister also said the Samajwadi Party had opposed the airport and spread misleading information about it. He added that the facility now links Ayodhya to cities nationwide.
He further accused the opposition of trying to block the Ram Temple, questioning the existence of Lord Ram and creating confusion about the city’s identity. He mentioned past incidents of firing on devotees and said construction of the temple could not be stopped.
He contrasted current efforts with earlier administrations, citing the naming of a shelter after Nishadraj Guha and a statue at Shringverpur. He said previous governments had allowed encroachments under Waqf rules instead of protecting cultural heritage.
Describing Ayodhya as the capital of the Solar Dynasty, he mentioned plans to develop it as a solar city, including work at Suraj Kund, Guptar Ghat and riverfront areas.
He concluded that clear intent and decisive governance had produced visible results in Ayodhya.
Separately, the Chief Minister announced that Bhadarsa would be renamed Bharatpur-Bharatkund and Khirauni Suchitaganj Nagar Panchayat would be named after Maa Jwala Ji to honor figures from the Ramayana.
