'I'm not a successor, would return to Gorakhpur than move to Delhi,' says Yogi Adityanath on his political future

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has claimed that he sees himself as a "yogi dedicated to public service", rather than a political successor to [presumably] Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Speaking at the India Today Conclave on Saturday, Adityanath said that his role as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh is to fulfill his duties and serve the people of the state.

When asked about his political future within the BJP, Adityanath said: "Look, I am not an heir to anyone. I want to work as a yogi. As a servant of Bharat Mata, I have been given the responsibility of the people of Uttar Pradesh, and I am fulfilling my duty in that capacity."

He added that if given the opportunity, he would like to return to Gorakhpur, the seat of Gorakhnath Math, than moving to Delhi.

"I have already said that I am more eager to go to Gorakhpur," he said.

'80-20 battle in 2027 UP Polls'

The Chief Minister expressed confidence in BJP's ability to secure a victory in the upcoming 2027 UP Assembly elections.

He predicted a landslide victory for the saffron party, saying, "The 2027 election is an 80-20 battle. 80 per cent will be with the BJP and its allies, while the remaining 20 per cent will include everyone else."

Support for Sambhal Police Officer's Remarks on Holi 

Adityanath also voiced his support for a controversial comment made by a Sambhal police officer, who had said that while Holi comes once a year, Friday prayers take place every week.

Adityanath said, "The official may have spoken as a 'pehelwa' but what the Arjun awardee said was correct.”

He further praised religious leaders for deciding to hold Friday namaz after 2 pm, saying that people could pray at home if they wished to do so before that time.

Rejects allegations that UP govt tried to hide Kumbh stampede deaths

Regarding the Maha Kumbh stampede in which 30 pilgrims lost their lives on January 29, Adityanath rejected accusations that his government tried to hide the deaths.

He clarified that the priority was to help the injured and ensure people who had taken a holy dip on Mauni Amavasya left the Sangam area easily.

He said that once the administration took care of the injured and ensured the pilgrim rush had eased out, it briefed the media.

He also said the Maha Kumbh was a fine example of unity and a lesson for those who had questioned the congregation.