'Nature, DNA same': Adityanath compares Ayodhya, Sambhal, Bangladesh situations
What's the story
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has compared the present-day scenario in Sambhal, Ayodhya, and Bangladesh to what Mughal ruler Babur's army did in Ayodhya. Addressing the 43rd Ramayan Mela inauguration in Ayodhya on Thursday, he said the nature and "DNA" of these incidents are the same. "The nature and DNA of these divisive elements remain the same today as they were 500 years ago," he said.
Political criticism
Adityanath criticizes opposition parties for social division
Adityanath also took a dig at opposition parties, suggesting they are responsible for social division. He said, "If we had foiled conspiracies to divide society, this country would have never been colonized." He added that divisive forces have properties abroad and would run away in times of crisis. His comments come amid tensions in Sambhal after a court-ordered survey of a mosque, which Hindu petitioners alleged was built on a Hindu temple site.
Unrest overview
Sambhal and Bangladesh: Current situations explained
On the situation in Bangladesh, where Hindu minorities were targeted after the regime change earlier this year, he said, "What a general of Babar did in Ayodhya, what was done in Sambhal and what is happening in Bangladesh today have the same nature and DNA. There are divisive elements here too." "They are preparing to divide and then cut you. These divisive people have properties in many countries. They will flee if there is a problem, others will die,"
Backlash response
Opposition leaders criticize Adityanath's remarks
Adityanath's comments have drawn flak from opposition leaders. Congress MP Tariq Anwar said he was shocked over his language and accused him of dividing the society. Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav suggested Adityanath check his own DNA instead. Five people were killed in violence during a survey on November 24, when protestors gathered outside the mosque and clashed with security personnel.