Those who once bowed before mafias now trying to divide society along caste lines: Adityanath slams Opposition

The CM accused certain political elements of resorting to “caste divisions” for survival, saying, “Those who once bowed before mafias and mortgaged power are now trying to divide society along caste lines.” He added, “Earlier, they extorted money in the name of jobs. Now, they are trying to divide society in the name of caste. That is why I say—‘Batoge toh katoge, ek rahoge toh nek rahoge.’”

He called upon society to rise above caste divisions and embrace the ideals of Bhamashah, the legendary figure known for his patriotism, sacrifice and support to Maharana Pratap.

Adityanath mentioned how Baroda’s King Sayajirao Gaekwad awarded a scholarship to Dr BR Ambedkar for higher education abroad. “Where was caste in these acts of support?”

He highlighted that in 2016, a trader was murdered in Lucknow and a jeweller was shot in Sultanpur — incidents that occurred under the then government, which “provided shelter to criminals.” He said that under his administration, the security of both traders and women has been treated as paramount. “We made it clear that anyone who endangers their safety will face strict consequences…,” he remarked. He added that when action was taken against miscreants, those who once thrived on caste-based politics began shedding crocodile tears.

The Chief Minister instructed the GST department to organise annual felicitation ceremonies for the top 10 GST-paying traders in the state capital and the top 10 in each district. He also announced that any GST-paying trader who suffers an accident will be given Rs 10 lakh in assistance from the government on this day.

He urged traders to join the government’s efforts for environmental protection. “River rejuvenation and plantation drives are ongoing in every district. Traders and business organisations should actively participate,” he urged.