Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday accused the Opposition of trying to create a divide in society, stating that the acts of Mughal-era ruler Babur's commander in Ayodhya and Sambhal 500 years ago and those that are unfolding in Bangladesh today share the same nature and intent.
The chief minister, who was in the temple town for the inauguration of the 43rd Ramayan Mela, said Lord Ram had united the whole society and cautioned people against dismissing these issues as distant or irrelevant.
"Had we given importance to unity and not let the strategy of nation's enemies succeed in creating social animosity, this country would have never become a slave. Our pilgrimages would not have been desecrated. A handful of invaders would not have dared to invade us and would be crushed by India's brave soldiers," Adityanath said.
"But those who created obstacles within the society succeeded. Their genes remain the same even today. Those who indulge in caste-based politics to shatter the social fabric are still active," the CM said.
"Look at the kind of acts our enemies in neighbouring countries are committing. Remember this, if anyone is under any illusion. 500 years ago, a general of Babur committed certain deeds in Ayodhya, similar acts in Sambhal, and what is happening today in Bangladesh -- the nature and DNA of all three are the same," he added.
The BJP leader said if someone believes that what is happening in India was dissimilar to what happened in Bangladesh then they are mistaken.
"Divisive elements are there already, tearing apart the social fabric, breaking social unity, and making full arrangements 'aapko kaatne aur katwaane ka'," he said.
"These disruptive forces include many who have purchased properties in countries around the world. When a crisis strikes here, they will run to those places, leaving people here to suffer and die. That is what they do," he added.
Ever since the Sheikh Hasina-led Bangladesh government was overthrown in August this year following intense student protests, the Muslim-majority neighbor has reported widespread violence against religious minorities, including the Hindu community.
The violence erupted in Sambhal last month over a survey of a local mosque.
Speaking further, chief minister urged everyone to get inspired by the ideals of Lord Ram and work towards realization of Prime Minister Modi's vision 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.' "Ayodhya has been a beacon of wisdom and welfare for humanity for thousands of year … In January, after a 500-year wait, Lord Ram was ceremoniously enshrined in the Ram Mandir by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Though the event took place in Ayodhya on January 22, the celebrations reverberated across India and the world," he said.
He said, for a complete understanding of the nation's dedication to Lord Ram, one needs to watch the Ram Leelas begun by Tulsidas and staged in every village.
He further referred to the time when families travelled distance to see Ramayan serial on Doordarshan in the 1990s.
"Anyone who lacks respect for Lord Ram and Mata Janaki should be considered an enemy," he stated, and further added, "Jo Ram ka nahi, vo kisi kaam ka nahi" (Those who do not stand with Ram, stand for nothing). On his day-long visit to Ayodhya, Adityanath worshipped at Hanumangarhi Temple and thereafter visited the Ram Lalla Temple.
Earlier on November 20, he inaugurated the Sugreeva Fort Gate and attended the Sant Sammelan programme.
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