Yogi Adityanath is an Indian politician and the 22nd Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. A member of Bharatiya Janata Party, Adityanath has represented the Gorakhpur constituency for five consecutive terms since 1998. His real name is Ajay Singh Bisht. Adityanath is a prominent face of BJP in UP and is known for his fiery speeches.
Born on June 5, 1972, in Uttarakhand's Pauri Garhwal, Adityanath is the Mahant or chief priest of the Gorakhnath Math, a Hindu temple in Gorakhpur. He has also founded a Hindu Yuva Vahini, a socio-cultural outfit in 2002.He is the son of Anand Singh Bisht and Savitri Devi and holds a bachelor's degree in Mathematics.
After leaving home at the age of 21 in 1993, he got actively involved with the Ram Mandir Movement. Adityanath became a disciple of Mahant Avaidyanath and was made the Chief Priest of the Gorakhpur Math on September 14, 2014. He was given the responsibility to manage the election campaign for Mahant Avaidyanath in 1996.
Adityanath made his political debut in 1998 when he became the youngest Lok Sabha member from Gorakhpur at the age of 26.He handled various departments ranging from the Committee on Food to the Consultative Committee, including the Ministry of Home Affairs. He was a prominent election campaigner for the BJP in the assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh in 2017.Yogi Adityanath was sworn in as the Chief Minister of UP on March 19, 2017 after he was backed by the majority of BJP legislators.
His official Twitter handle is @myogiadityanath and the name of his official Facebook page is MYogiAdityanath. He is also active on Instagram, under the username myogi_adityanath.
A major political confrontation has erupted between the BJP and the opposition over the Chief Election Commissioner and the Special Intensive Revision exercise. Opposition parties, led by the Congress and INDIA bloc constituents, have demanded the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar, accusing the authorities of disenfranchising voters, calling the exercise an assault on democracy, and weighing an impeachment motion. The BJP has countered vigorously, with leaders accusing the opposition of attacking constitutional institutions to conceal their electoral failures and misleading the public. While the opposition alleges opacity and claims legal safeguards for election commissioners protect wrongdoing, the ruling party asserts that decisions within the Election Commission were taken unanimously and that allegations against the poll panel remain baseless.
Severe waterlogging following heavy rainfall in Gorakhpur has triggered a political dispute within the Bharatiya Janata Party. The situation escalated after a local party councillor contacted Gorakhpur MP Ravi Kishan to flag water accumulation in areas that had reportedly never flooded in over a decade. During the phone call, the MP questioned if the councillor had joined the Samajwadi Party, prompting the councillor to retort asking whether the MP had joined the Bahujan Samaj Party. The confrontation has placed scrutiny on the MP's earlier remarks comparing Gorakhpur's development to Spain. Defending the administrative response, Ravi Kishan stated that the intensity of the rain was unprecedented in nearly two decades, adding that municipal pumps were deployed and water levels would recede once the downpour stopped.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi at 7 Lok Kalyan Marg in Delhi ahead of the UP Assembly elections. Meetings were lined up with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the party leadership to review UP poll preparations. The Bharatiya Janata Party is reviewing multiple internal surveys to identify key areas requiring extra focus and working on strategies to strengthen ground-level workers while effectively countering aggressive opposition campaigns.
Former Vice President Hamid Ansari has triggered a political row after citing an observation attributed to former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru during the A.G. Noorani Memorial Lecture. Quoting from a book, Ansari referred to Nehru’s reported view that Hindu right-wing communalism posed a greater threat to India than communism. The remarks drew criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party, while Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described them as an insult to Sanatan traditions. Cleric Umar Ahmed Ilyasi also criticised Ansari. His supporters highlighted his career as a diplomat and scholar.
On India First with Gaurav Sawant, panellists debate major political rows surrounding national identity, secularism, and constitutional principles. The discussion examines the controversy over singing the national song, Vande Mataram, and the Karnataka legal dispute regarding legislative competence over limiting the song to two stanzas, with BJP national spokesperson Tuhin Sinha and Congress national spokesperson Brijesh Kalappa trading historical and political arguments alongside political analysts Shehzad Poonawalla and Rashid Kidwai. The broadcast also addresses the political fallout over remarks by former Vice President Hamid Ansari and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi concerning nationalism, religiosity, and Sharia courts. Panellists further analyse the ideological distinctions between Hinduism and Hindutva, the presence of religious figures in electoral politics, and allegations of minority appeasement versus secular governance under the Indian Constitution.
Former Vice President Hamid Ansari has triggered a political controversy after citing an observation attributed to India's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru during the A.G. Noorani Memorial Lecture. Quoting from a book, Ansari highlighted Nehru's remark stating that Hindu right-wing communalism posed a greater threat to India than communism. The Bharatiya Janata Party attacked the comments, alleging they reflected the ideological stance of the Congress party. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticised the statement as an insult to Sanatan traditions. Additionally, cleric Umar Ahmed Ilyasi accused Ansari of provoking Muslims, while defenders highlighted Ansari's background as a diplomat, scholar, and member of an esteemed family.
A major political confrontation has erupted following remarks by the former Vice President regarding Hindu right-wing communalism at the A.G. Noorani Memorial Lecture in New Delhi. Citing former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, the speech warned of challenges to civic nationalism. The Bharatiya Janata Party and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a sharp attack, alleging disrespect to Sanatan Dharma traditions. Additionally, Imam body chief Umar Ahmed Ilyasi strongly criticised the comments, alleging that such statements provoke Muslims and suggest a larger conspiracy.
A political row has erupted over former Vice President Hamid Ansari's remarks citing former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru regarding Hindu right-wing communalism. Speaking at the A.G. Noorani Memorial Lecture in New Delhi, Ansari cited Nehru's observation that the greater danger to India was Hindu right-wing communalism rather than communism, while also warning of challenges to civic nationalism that could create distinctions between citizens based on faith. The Bharatiya Janata Party and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath mounted a sharp attack on Ansari, alleging his remarks disrespect India's sanatan traditions and form part of an agenda by anti-India forces to tarnish the country's image. Additionally, senior Muslim cleric and imam body chief Umair Ahmed Ilyasi criticised Ansari, accusing him of provoking Muslims and alleging a conspiracy behind his statement.
A political controversy erupted following Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' student outreach event after comedian Pulkit Mani performed a satirical mimicry of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The act satirised the Prime Minister's mannerisms, his interactions with foreign leaders, and an incident where he offered a chair to an elderly woman whom he addressed as mother. The Bharatiya Janata Party attacked the Congress and Rahul Gandhi, with Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and other leaders accusing the party of insulting women and misleading youth, while demanding Rahul Gandhi quit politics. Defending the event, Congress leaders stated that the performance was political satire and mimicry rather than a serious statement, pointing out the presence of women in the audience who enjoyed the act. The opposition also questioned why similar outrage was absent when Sonia Gandhi faced political insults, as both sides traded fierce charges over political propriety.
A political controversy has erupted following remarks made by former Vice President Hamid Ansari during the A.G. Noorani Memorial Lecture in New Delhi. Citing an observation attributed to Jawaharlal Nehru, Ansari stated that the greater danger facing India was Hindu right-wing communalism rather than communism, while highlighting emerging challenges to civic nationalism. The Bharatiya Janata Party condemned the remarks as unfortunate and anti-Hindu propaganda, demanding an apology. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticised the statement, alleging it disrespected India's ancient Sanatan traditions and diminished the dignity of constitutional offices. Senior Muslim cleric and imam body chief Umar Ahmad Ilyasi also hit back at Ansari, accusing him of attempting to provoke Muslims and alleging a broader conspiracy behind the remarks. Political leaders defended the inclusive nature of Indian society, asserting that communal harmony remains resilient.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a sharp critique against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding his conduct during the 'Chhatron Ki Goonj' Indore event. Speaking in Greater Noida, Adityanath stated that the behavior displayed at the event was an insult to womanhood and accused Gandhi of spreading confusion and anarchy in society. Highlighting traditional Indian values, he remarked that civilized society practices respect by prioritizing elders and women, referencing ancient cultural principles of honoring women. Adityanath questioned the conduct of those who mock elders and women on public stages, stating the country should not expect adherence to core cultural values like 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' from such individuals. Reporter Ashish Shrivastava noted that BJP leaders have strongly objected to the stage mimicry and remarks, arguing that the youth are being misguided under the guise of student events.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath marked the Prime Minister's birthday by lighting an Ashirwad ka Diya in Lucknow, wishing him a long life in service of the nation. Celebrations were held across various cities, with multiple ghats in Varanasi illuminated with earthen lamps. The report highlights Varanasi's transformation and developmental initiatives, including around the Kashi Vishwanath Temple area, under the leadership of the Prime Minister, who represents the constituency in Parliament. Visuals captured cities lit up with lamps to commemorate the occasion.
Varanasi marked the birthday of Prime Minister Narendra Modi with grand celebrations along the banks of the Ganga. Scores of earthen lamps were lit at Namo Ghat, Dashashwamedh Ghat, and Assi Ghat, resembling a Deepotsav. Students and local residents gathered to participate in the lamp lighting ceremonies alongside the special Ganga Aarti. The occasion also witnessed a bike rally under the Seva Sankalp Abhiyan heading from Varanasi to Gujarat. Political leaders, including Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, took part in events displaying NDA strength ahead of upcoming elections.
Nationwide celebrations marked the Prime Minister's birthday, spanning events across Gujarat, New Delhi, Varanasi, and several states. In the national capital, the fifth edition of the SemiconIndia event was launched to coincide with the occasion. Across the country, the Bharatiya Janata Party commenced a month-long Seva Sankalp Abhiyan focusing on public service initiatives, including blood donation drives, cleanliness campaigns, and welfare outreach. Several political leaders and NDA allies participated in commemorative programmes, flagging off bike rallies from Vadnagar to Varanasi and conducting special prayers for the Prime Minister's long life and health. Citizens were urged to participate in the evening 'Ashirwad ka Diya' initiative by lighting lamps in homes and public spaces. Key state-level welfare announcements, including the second phase of the Deendayal Lado Lakshmi scheme, were launched to support women's financial empowerment. Leaders highlighted the collective national vision of achieving a developed nation status by 2047, praising the Prime Minister's decisive governance and long public service journey.
Among those seen travelling together were Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
The report primarily covers the escalating Saudi-Houthi conflict following missile and drone strikes on southern Saudi cities, alongside strategic analyses of the trilateral Mecca defence agreement involving Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan.
A debate on India Today examined the demolition of a mosque structure in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, and notices issued in Moradabad. AIMIM national spokesperson Waris Pathan alleged that democratic values and due process were bypassed during the action, questioning the haste of the administration and claiming the order pertained to eviction rather than demolition. He argued that the structure had historical existence and was registered, asserting that the Muslim community was being targeted ahead of elections. Political analyst Shehzad Poonawalla defended the administration's measures, stating that hearings had taken place over seventeen months before the district court temporary stay expired without an appeal filed in a higher court. Poonawalla noted that anti-encroachment action was executed according to available documents and judicial orders across multiple properties regardless of religious identity, rejecting claims of discrimination under government welfare schemes.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath conducted an aerial survey of flood-affected regions along the Varuna and Ganga rivers in Varanasi to review the ground situation. Affected residents from submerged residential colonies were shifted to safe locations, including government schools. Relief material distribution is being organised for impacted families. While water levels in the Ganga and Varuna rivers have receded below the danger mark over the past two days, waterlogging persists in residential areas. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke with Varanasi's District Magistrate and Mayor to review ground conditions, promising central government assistance for flood management and ongoing relief operations across the district.
On Shri Krishna Janmashtami, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced his government's resolve to develop a grand temple complex in Mathura and Vrindavan on the lines of Ayodhya's Ram Temple and Varanasi's Kashi Vishwanath Dham.
On Shri Krishna Janmashtami, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath announced his government's resolve to develop a grand temple complex in Mathura and Vrindavan on the lines of Ayodhya's Ram Temple and Varanasi's Kashi Vishwanath Dham. Speaking during celebrations at the birthplace of Lord Krishna, the Chief Minister stated that efforts are underway to create grandiose premises to ensure devotees face no hurdles. The announcement sparked discussions around the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections and the long-standing Krishna Janmabhoomi dispute involving 13.37 acres of land. In a debate on India First, petitioner's counsel Advocate Vishnu Shankar Jain detailed the legal maintainability and historical documentary evidence regarding the temple's demolition in 1670. Representatives from the Bharatiya Janata Party, Samajwadi Party, and the All India Imam Association presented contrasting viewpoints on the legal proceedings, civilisational faith, historical records, and the broader political narrative surrounding Mathura.
