In the final phase of the Lok Sabha elections, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath delivered a vehement speech in Gorakhpur, targeting the opposition, especially the Congress party, for their alleged anti-Ram stance. Adityanath's remarks were pointed and charged with religious undertones, reflecting the intense political climate as the elections draw to a close.

Addressing a large gathering, Yogi Adityanath accused the Congress party of historically opposing the reverence for Lord Ram, a central figure in Hinduism. He recalled an incident from the 1980s, asserting that the Congress removed Veer Bahadur Singh from his position as Chief Minister because of Singh's devotion to Lord Ram. Adityanath stated, "Congress' character is anti-Ram. Congress removed the late Veer Bahadur Singh from the post of Chief Minister because Veer Bahadur Singh was a Ram Bhakt...Even today Congress is saying that Ram Mandir should not have been built. This election is between Ram Bhakts and Ram Traitors."

Yogi Adityanath emphasized the significance of devotion to Lord Ram in political leadership, asserting that only a Ram devotee is fit to rule in Delhi. He highlighted Gorakhpur's historical importance, noting that it was from this place that the lock of the Ram Mandir was opened in 1986 during the tenure of Chief Minister Veer Bahadur Singh. Adityanath urged the public to show their support through record-breaking votes, stating, "Today, when Ram Lalla is seated at that place, record votes should be received from here. I ask the public why they love Modi ji and support the BJP so much. They say that we will bring those who have brought Ram...Ram bhakt hi raaj karega Delhi ke singhasan par."

The Chief Minister did not limit his criticism to the Congress party alone. He also attacked the Samajwadi Party (SP), accusing them of undermining the Ram temple's construction. He claimed that the SP was spreading misinformation about the temple, stating, "Samajwadi Party says the Ram temple was not built properly. You people have lost your mind. Ram temple is a symbol of India's eternal faith. Therefore, this election has come between Ram devotees and Ram traitors."

Adityanath's speech in Gorakhpur was not merely a political address but a call to his supporters to reaffirm their commitment to the BJP and its leaders, whom he portrayed as true devotees of Ram. The speech underscored the BJP's strategy of using religious sentiment to galvanize voters, particularly in regions with significant Hindu populations.

This rhetoric is particularly potent in the context of Uttar Pradesh, a state with a rich tapestry of religious and cultural history. By invoking the legacy of Veer Bahadur Singh and the Ram Mandir movement, Adityanath aimed to solidify the BJP's position as the defender of Hindu values and traditions.

The controversy surrounding the Ram Mandir has been a focal point of Indian politics for decades. The Babri Masjid-Ram Janmabhoomi dispute culminated in the mosque's demolition in 1992, leading to a prolonged legal battle and social unrest. The Supreme Court's verdict in 2019, which allowed for the construction of a Ram temple at the disputed site, was a landmark decision that significantly influenced the political landscape.

Adityanath's references to this history serve to remind voters of the BJP's role in achieving what many of its supporters consider a long-awaited victory. By framing the election as a battle between "Ram Bhakts" and "Ram Traitors," Adityanath sought to polarize the electorate along religious lines, a tactic that has both mobilized supporters and drawn criticism for deepening communal divides.

Critics argue that such rhetoric risks alienating minority communities and exacerbating social tensions. They point out that the focus on religious identity can overshadow critical issues such as economic development, healthcare, and education. However, for Adityanath and the BJP, the emphasis on Ram Bhakti is seen as a means to consolidate their core voter base and ensure electoral success.

The reaction to Adityanath's speech has been mixed. Supporters hail it as a bold reaffirmation of their faith and values, while opponents decry it as divisive and inflammatory. The Congress party and the Samajwadi Party have both refuted Adityanath's claims, with Congress leaders emphasizing their respect for all religions and accusing the BJP of using religion for political gain.

In the days leading up to the final phase of voting, such high-pitched campaigns are expected to intensify. Both the BJP and its rivals will likely continue to leverage emotive issues to sway voters. As the nation watches this unfolding drama, the outcome of the elections will hinge on how effectively each party can connect with the electorate's hopes, fears, and aspirations.

In conclusion, Yogi Adityanath's rally in Gorakhpur was a significant moment in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, highlighting the potent mix of religion and politics in India. His accusations against the Congress and Samajwadi Party, coupled with his call for a Ram Bhakt to rule Delhi, encapsulate the BJP's strategy of appealing to religious sentiments. As the electoral battle reaches its climax, the resonance of Adityanath's words among voters will play a crucial role in determining the political landscape of the country.

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