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Meet the road-building, Muslim-baiting monk who could rule India

In the heart of India lies Uttar Pradesh, the country’s most populous state and a significant political battleground, currently under the leadership of Yogi Adityanath. As the Chief Minister since 2017, Adityanath has become a polarizing figure, celebrated by supporters as a visionary leader focused on development and governance, while critics raise concerns about his controversial policies and rhetoric, which some view as divisive. His tenure has been marked by ambitious projects aimed at transforming the state’s infrastructure, such as the development of expressways and initiatives to promote investment, which proponents argue are crucial for economic growth in a region often plagued by poverty and underdevelopment.

However, Adityanath’s leadership has not been without significant controversy. His affiliation with the Hindu nationalist party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has sparked fears among minority communities, particularly Muslims, who worry about rising communal tensions. Critics point to incidents of violence and the enforcement of laws perceived to target specific communities as evidence of an increasingly intolerant atmosphere. For instance, the state’s handling of protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in 2019 drew national attention, highlighting the deep divisions in society. Additionally, his administration’s approach to law and order, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, has faced scrutiny, with accusations of mishandling the crisis and prioritizing political narratives over public health.

Despite these challenges, Adityanath remains a formidable political figure, leveraging his strong support base and a narrative of Hindutva to consolidate power. His vision for Uttar Pradesh encompasses not only infrastructure development but also a cultural renaissance, promoting Hindu festivals and traditions as a means to foster a sense of identity. This dual approach of development and cultural revival appeals to many voters in a state where caste and religious identities play a significant role in politics. As Uttar Pradesh prepares for the upcoming elections, the debate around Adityanath’s legacy continues, with supporters and detractors alike pondering the future direction of both the state and the nation under his leadership.