Yogi warns rioters, Highlights development push in Gonda

Says era of lawlessness is over; inaugurates and lays foundation stones for ₹516 Cr projects

Gonda, June 6: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday asserted that the pre-2017 era of riots, lawlessness and insecurity would never return to the state, warning that anyone attempting to disrupt social harmony and festive celebrations would face strict consequences.

Addressing a public gathering after inaugurating and laying foundation stones for 262 development projects worth ₹516 crore in Gonda district, the Chief Minister said Uttar Pradesh has undergone a significant transformation over the past nine years under the “double-engine government”.

Recalling the situation before 2017, Yogi alleged that festivals and religious events often faced disruptions and that governments of the time failed to act firmly against anti-social elements. He said the state now enjoys an atmosphere of security and stability, which has encouraged investment and accelerated development.

The Chief Minister inaugurated and launched projects worth ₹256 crore in Katra Assembly constituency and ₹260 crore in Karnailganj. He also participated in an Annaprashan ceremony for children and visited exhibition stalls set up at the venue.

Highlighting the government’s development agenda, Yogi said benefits of welfare schemes are reaching every district, tehsil, block, urban local body and gram panchayat without discrimination. He claimed that Uttar Pradesh has moved from an identity crisis to becoming a state that commands respect across the country.

The Chief Minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and the double-engine government for improving infrastructure, generating employment and creating investment opportunities beyond traditional urban centres such as Noida, Ghaziabad and Meerut. He said districts like Gonda are now attracting investment and creating jobs for local youth.

Referring to recent recruitment drives, Yogi said youths from Gonda and neighbouring districts had secured appointments in the Uttar Pradesh Police and other government services through a transparent process.

The Chief Minister also spoke about the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, describing it as a historic achievement made possible by the present government. He contrasted the current situation with earlier periods when, he claimed, devotees faced restrictions in visiting Ayodhya.

Emphasising inclusive development, Yogi said government schemes are being implemented on the basis of eligibility rather than identity, ensuring benefits reach all deserving citizens irrespective of caste, faith or community.

He announced that a series of programmes would be held from World Environment Day on June 5 to International Yoga Day on June 21, including health camps, agricultural fairs and awareness activities across the state.

The Chief Minister further announced approval for key infrastructure projects in the region, including a major bridge at Matiyari Ghat, flood-control works along the Ghaghra River, completion of the Tedhi River bridge, a veterinary hospital at Ramapur and a modern workshop at the Government ITI in Karnailganj.

Stating that Gonda is emerging with a new identity, Yogi said the government is committed to transforming the district into a model of development and good governance.

Several public representatives and local leaders, including MPs, MLAs and district officials, were present on the occasion.