At a public gathering in Lucknow on Monday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath accused certain missionary and left-leaning groups of attempting to influence tribal communities in the state before the BJP came to power in 2017.
He claimed these communities were deprived of basic rights and infrastructure for decades.
Speaking at the 'Worker Felicitation Ceremony' of the Shri Guru Gorakhnath Health Service Yatra, Adityanath said that prior to 2017, tribal populations lacked essential facilities such as electricity, roads, healthcare, and even access to ration cards and voting rights. The event was also attended by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarkaryavah Dattatreya Hosabale, who was the chief guest.
Reflecting on the Maoist-Madhesi conflict in Nepal, Adityanath recounted his own interactions with members of the Hindu Jagran Manch during that period. He praised the work of RSS and its allied organisations for their persistent efforts in supporting and protecting communities in border areas.
The Chief Minister credited RSS stalwart Bharat Ratna Nanaji Deshmukh and his own spiritual mentor, Mahant Avaidyanath, for initiating transformative social reforms. He highlighted their efforts in establishing hostels and educational institutions in underserved regions, which he said laid the groundwork for tribal upliftment and empowerment.
“Even after decades of independence, forest-dwelling tribal communities remained neglected,” he said. “They were subjected to exploitation and lived at the mercy of forest officials and police.” He expressed his government's commitment to reversing that trend through targeted development initiatives.
In a separate statement issued on Monday, Adityanath expressed his condolences on the passing of Pope Francis, describing the Pope as a revered spiritual figure who would be remembered for his compassion and service.