‘Those who sinned against Sambhal will face punishment’: Yogi targets Congress, SP

Addressing a public gathering, Yogi launched a sharp attack on foreign invaders, stating the town once boasted 68 pilgrimage sites, 19 sacred wells, and traditional 24- and 84-kos parikrama routes — all desecrated and destroyed by invaders. These holy sites were taken over, and a deliberate attempt was made to erase the truth, he claimed.

Calling it a “malicious conspiracy,” CM Adityanath vowed to restore all 68 shrines and 19 sacred wells in Sambhal. Citing Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar’s revival of Kashi Vishwanath and Somnath temples, he pledged a similar renaissance for Sambhal’s heritage.

“True development,” he said, “lies in preserving legacy while shaping the golden dreams of today and tomorrow.”

Emphasising Sambhal’s spiritual significance, CM Adityanath said it is a sacred land of both Hari (Vishnu) and Har (Shiva), and foretold in scriptures like the Shrimad Bhagavat, Skanda, and Vishnu Puranas as the birthplace of Lord Kalki in Kaliyug.

Hitting out at those who label Hindu traditions as controversial, he said, “Their background is controversial, so they see our heritage the same way — but this is not up for dispute.” He warned that all such malicious attempts to undermine Sanatan Dharma will be firmly crushed.

Referencing the revival of Kashi and Ayodhya, the CM asked, “If they can be restored, why not Sambhal?” He reaffirmed his government’s resolve to rejuvenate Lord Kalki’s shrine and Harihar Dham.

Attacking the Congress and SP, he claimed, “The Congress orchestrated mass killings here, and the SP, as its disciple, shielded the murderers. Never forget their sins against Sambhal.”

“They hid the truth of post-independence massacres out of fear of losing their vote bank,” he further alleged. “We are not here for vote bank politics — we are here to preserve our heritage. Those who shame India and its values will be taught a lesson their future generations won’t forget.”

He also claimed that past governments allowed riots, lawlessness, and exploitation to flourish. “Girls weren’t safe, traders weren’t safe. But today, every citizen in UP is secure — except rioters. Mahakal is delivering justice,” he stated.

The Chief Minister also emphasised: “Those who sinned against Sambhal will face punishment. Those trying to hinder Sambhal’s development will pay the price. Those who desecrate the holy sites of Sanatan Dharma will also pay the price.”

Taking another dig at previous governments, he claimed they nurtured one mafia per district, whereas his government is promoting the “One District, One Product” scheme.

Praising the resilience of Sambhal’s people, he said they faced riots with courage and never bowed down. He assured them that the double-engine government is firmly committed to both heritage preservation and development.

The CM also inspected archaeological artifacts unearthed in Sambhal and planted saplings to promote environmental awareness.