Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has once again underlined his government’s strict stand against offering namaz on public roads, saying that religious practices should not disturb public movement or create inconvenience for citizens. Addressing a gathering in Lucknow, the Chief Minister said prayers can be conducted peacefully in shifts if space is limited, but roads cannot be blocked under any circumstances.
During his speech, Yogi Adityanath said the state administration would first try to ensure compliance through dialogue and understanding. However, he also warned that stronger measures could be taken if people fail to cooperate with authorities. His comments came while discussing the management of large religious gatherings and maintaining law and order in the state.
The Chief Minister stated that roads are built for transportation and public use, and no group has the right to obstruct traffic in the name of religion. According to him, public convenience must remain the top priority for the administration. He clarified that the government is not against religious practices, including namaz, but insisted that such activities should be organised responsibly without disrupting daily life.
Yogi Adityanath said some groups had argued that large numbers of worshippers made it difficult to avoid public spaces during prayers. Responding to this concern, he suggested that prayers could be organised in multiple batches or shifts. He explained that if there is not enough space at one time, people can divide themselves into smaller groups and complete the prayers in an orderly manner.
The Chief Minister also emphasised that the rule of law is equal for everyone and public spaces cannot be occupied in a way that affects common citizens. He reiterated that the government would not interfere with anyone’s right to worship, but the use of roads for religious gatherings would not be permitted.
His remarks have once again sparked political discussions around the use of public places for religious events. The issue has remained a sensitive topic in several states, with debates often emerging during major festivals and Friday prayers. Supporters of the government argue that maintaining free movement on roads is necessary for public safety and urban management, while critics say authorities must ensure adequate arrangements for communities with limited prayer spaces.
This is not the first time Yogi Adityanath has raised the issue. During the 2026 West Bengal Assembly election campaign, he criticised the previous state government over alleged leniency toward public religious gatherings and promised stricter enforcement of administrative rules. His latest comments are being viewed as part of the same broader approach toward governance and public order.
Political observers believe the statement is likely to trigger strong reactions from both supporters and opposition parties. While some citizens agree with the idea that roads should remain free from all forms of obstruction, others feel the issue requires a balanced and sensitive approach that respects religious freedom while also ensuring civic discipline.
The Uttar Pradesh government has repeatedly maintained that its policies are aimed at maintaining peace, preventing traffic disruptions, and ensuring equal treatment under the law. With religious gatherings often drawing huge crowds, the administration says better planning and coordination are essential to avoid inconvenience to the public while allowing people to practice their faith peacefully.
