CM Yogi Adityanath Denounces Pahalgam Tourist Attack

Lakhimpur Kheri, April 26 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Yogi Adityanath, has vehemently denounced the despicable terrorist assault on tourists in Pahalgam, extending heartfelt condolences and tributes on behalf of the citizens of Uttar Pradesh.

He emphasized that terrorism and anarchy have no place in a civilized society. CM Yogi highlighted the Modi government's approach to service, security, and effective governance, asserting that the new India operates on the principle of “zero tolerance” and is entirely prepared to respond to threats in the same manner they are issued.

“New India does not provoke anyone, but under PM Modi’s guidance, it will not hesitate to confront anyone who challenges us,” he declared.

He noted that under this zero-tolerance policy, UP has successfully eliminated mafias, riots, and lawlessness, while India continues to emerge as a dominant global economy.

In his criticism of the Samajwadi Party (SP), Yogi Adityanath labeled its leaders as anti-development, anti-women, anti-youth, and anti-farmer during their administration.

“They drove farmers to despair, compelled youth to migrate, and protected criminals who jeopardized the safety of women, daughters, and traders,” he said.

He further criticized both Congress and SP for fracturing society along caste lines while elevating tyrants like Aurangzeb and Babur while disrespecting heroes such as Shivaji and Rana Sanga.

While visiting Lakhimpur Kheri on Saturday, the Chief Minister distributed loans, grants, housing keys, and tractors to beneficiaries of various government welfare initiatives. Farmers from the Biswan and Palia blocks expressed their appreciation for the government’s flood control efforts.

During the event, CM Yogi recollected witnessing the hardships faced by the people in Palia and Nighasan due to last year's floods. He assured them of a long-term solution, mentioning that with the assistance of public representatives, the Jal Shakti Department is working to redirect the Sharda River. A 7 km channel is currently under rapid construction.

“I insisted on commencing the work prior to my visit,” he stated.

He emphasized the importance of judiciously utilizing public funds, stating that taxpayer money should be treated with respect. An earlier proposal for a Rs 180 crore embankment was dismissed by him as impractical. Instead, he advocated for river channelization, dredging, and allowing natural water flow to effectively avert floods.

He stated that if the project can be completed for Rs 22 crore instead of Rs 180 crore, it should be finalized by June 10. Once accomplished, monsoon waters will no longer inundate areas like Palia and Lakhimpur Kheri but will merge with the Saryu River and flow onward. This will shield farmers’ fields, homes, crops, and livestock from flood-related damage, ensuring no loss of life or property.

Highlighting the region's progress, CM Yogi pointed out the establishment of a medical college, once a distant aspiration, and the increasing tourism potential through Dudhwa National Park. He also confirmed funding for an airport in Lakhimpur Kheri and plans to protect it from flooding by the Suheli River.

CM Yogi reiterated that farmers, youth, and women are the primary focus for the double-engine government. Beginning with farm loan waivers, the government has ensured direct benefit transfers, such as the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi.

“We made it clear from the outset—no one will be permitted to exploit farmers,” he declared. Before 2017, sugarcane dues could go unpaid for a decade. Now, no farmer has outstanding payments older than a year. Out of 122 sugar mills, 105 are settling dues within a week, and the remaining delays are being resolved.

He also introduced an escrow account system to ensure that payments for sugar sales reach farmers first.

“If any sugar mill owner misbehaves after this, we’ll auction the mill and prioritize payments to the farmers,” he warned.