Are Some Forces Attempting to Change the Country’s Character through Illegal Conversions?

Lucknow, July 12 (NationPress) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated on Saturday that the state administration is implementing stringent measures against unlawful religious conversions, asserting that any attempts to undermine the nation's social and religious integrity will be met with severe consequences.

While speaking at the Shri Tegh Bahadur Sandesh Yatra in Lucknow, held to commemorate the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur, CM Yogi remarked, “Certain forces are endeavoring to systematically alter the character of our country. This represents a conspiracy aimed at fracturing society and disrupting religious unity. Such actions will be met with strict repercussions and cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.”

He accused individuals from the Scheduled Castes of being pressured into conversions through monetary incentives and intimidation—practices he described as unconstitutional and harmful to societal unity.

Highlighting a recent enforcement operation, the Chief Minister mentioned, “A significant crackdown occurred in Balrampur, where a network facilitating illegal conversions with foreign financial backing was dismantled. In this instance, conversion rates were being established, and transactions exceeding Rs 100 crore were uncovered across 40 accounts. This poses a grave threat to our economic and social stability.”

CM Yogi also inaugurated the commencement of the Sandesh Yatra from Lucknow to Delhi, which he honored as a tribute to the sacrifices made by Guru Tegh Bahadur, who sacrificed his life for his faith.

“This yatra will conclude at the historic Sheeshganj Gurdwara in Chandni Chowk, Delhi, the location of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom. His sacrifice during the oppressive regime of Aurangzeb serves as a reminder of the challenging periods when attempts were made to stifle Sanatan Dharma,” he added.

Yogi emphasized that Guru Tegh Bahadur’s steadfastness in the face of oppression serves as a lasting source of inspiration, and that this journey honors the legacy of martyrdom and defiance.

“We must safeguard the essence of sacrifice and selflessness demonstrated by the Sikh Gurus. There will always be attempts to sow discord between Hindus and Sikhs, but we must stay vigilant and united,” the CM remarked.

Earlier, CM Yogi welcomed the Sandesh Yatra at his official residence, showering flowers on the participants before flagging it off. The Yatra will traverse through Kanpur, Etawah, and Agra before arriving at the Sheeshganj Gurdwara in Delhi.