Those who label Kanwariyas as miscreants additionally alienated tribal communities, says U.P. CM Yogi

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday (July 18, 2025) in Varanasi alleged that the Kanwar Yatra is being intentionally defamed and its individuals, the Kanwariyas, are being labelled as goons by components who wish to humiliate the heritage of India. Mr. Adityanath, who was talking at a seminar on Tribal icon Birsa Munda, added that those that search to defame the Kanwar Yatris are the identical individuals who tried to separate the tribal group from India. 

“They conspired at each degree to make them struggle towards India. This is identical group that all the time insults the religion of India and these are the identical individuals who immediately wish to create a scenario of caste battle by creating faux accounts on social media platforms,” stated Mr. Adityanath emphasizing that the Kanwar Yatra embodies unity transcending caste, creed, and sect. “Today, the Yatra is progressing peacefully and with devotion, but some label it as unruly. These are the identical forces that attempt to mislead and provoke tribal communities. We should stay alert to such divisive components,” he added. 

Mr. Adityanath cautioned individuals from anti-social components who try to gas caste and communal tensions. “A number of years in the past, there was a case of arson. I had remarked then that such an act doubtless didn’t belong to any specific group. The investigation later confirmed that the particular person concerned was carrying a saffron scarf however was shouting ‘Ya Allah’. These misleading people should be uncovered and excluded from society if we’re to guard nationwide unity,” stated the U.P. CM, recalling an incident of some years in the past, including the identical forces who unfold caste-based hatred on-line had additionally tried to impress tribal communities towards the nation. “Such components should face strict motion,” he asserted.

Praising the Prime Minister Narendra Modi for declaring November 15 as Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas (Tribal Pride Day), Mr. Adityanath hailed the choice as one thing which put in a way of respect and recognition in tribal communities. “Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas is a gesture of gratitude and a bridge of communication with them,” he stated.