Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Advocates for Non-Violence While Acknowledging the Need for Force

On Saturday, Yogi Adityanath, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, emphasized that non-violence should be a guiding principle in human life. However, he acknowledged that the use of force becomes necessary when individuals pose a threat to the nation and society. Speaking at the inauguration of the Navy Valor Park in Lucknow, he highlighted that development can only thrive in a secure environment and stressed the importance of respect for national security and armed forces. Adityanath stated that true religion for humanity should be non-violence, but in cases where a threat emerges to the country and society, non-violence may not suffice. In such scenarios, the use of force becomes essential. He referenced a well-known Sanskrit phrase, 'Ahimsa Paramo Dharma,' which translates to 'non-violence is the highest virtue,' but also noted that using force to protect religion and national security is equally justified.

He further explained that a nation's strength determines its reputation on the global stage. Adityanath asserted that only when we are strong on the security front will the world consider us a friend, as no one bows before the weak. He elaborated that this principle is reflected in the actions of the armed forces when dealing with the nation's enemies. The Chief Minister linked security to development, noting significant changes in Uttar Pradesh over the past decade. He remarked that development initiatives can only progress effectively in a secure environment. Before 2017, Uttar Pradesh frequently experienced curfews, with professional criminals making life difficult for ordinary citizens. Adityanath emphasized that just as the armed forces protect the nation's borders under all circumstances, it is also the duty of citizens to honor the soldiers who defend the nation.

During the event in Lucknow, where Defense Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Navy Valor Park, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brijesh Pathak were also present. Adityanath highlighted the significance of the memorial, stating that the decommissioned naval ship INS Gomati has found a new purpose after its service. He mentioned that after serving in the Indian Navy and protecting India's maritime borders for an extended period, INS Gomati was decommissioned in 2022. Today, this vessel has been repurposed and established along the banks of the Gomati River.