Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Yogi Adityanath addressed an event in state-capital Lucknow on Monday, during which he delivered a sharp message against offering Namaz on roads. He asserted that his government would not allow disruptions in traffic in the name of religious gatherings. 

The state’s top political leader said that the roads are meant for public movement and cannot be turned into spaces for congregational prayers that cause inconvenience to commuters and emergency services. 

“Read Namaz in shifts”: CM Yogi

During his address, CM Yogi emphasised that the state administration would initially attempt to ensure compliance to the same by means of dialogue and persuasion. He, however, warned that stricter measures could follow if the rules were not paid heed to. 

He remarked, “You have to offer Namaz, you can read it during your shift. We will convince you with love, and if that does not work, another method will be adopted.” He also shared a video of his remarks on the social media platform ‘X.’

Watch UP CM Yogi's video on 'X' below:

The Chief Minister maintained that blocking roads for religious activities disrupts daily life and affects the general public, including traders, workers, patients and emergency responders. 

He added, “I am often asked whether, in Uttar Pradesh, people really do not offer Namaz on the roads. I say clearly that it does not happen at all. Go and see for yourself.”

Govt not opposing Namaz, clarifies Yogi

He further questioned the logic behind converting busy intersections into gathering spots for prayers or public events. He said, “Roads are meant for movement. Can anyone come and create a spectacle on a crossroads and block traffic? What right does anyone have to disrupt public movement?” 

He went on to say that his government was not opposing Namaz itself but objected to the use of public roads for religious congregations. He said, “We will not stop Namaz, but it should not happen on roads,” adding that the law applies equally to all communities. 

CM Yogi made similar remarks during Bengal polls

Notably, this is not the first time CM Yogi has raised objections to prayers being organised in public spaces. During the recently-held West Bengal 2026 Assembly Elections, he had slammed the Mamata Banerjee-led TMC government, alleging that Namaz was being allowed to be offered on roads while restrictions were imposed ahead of Hindu festivals. 

AIMIM hits back at UP govt

AIMIM spokesperson Asim Waqar, reacting strongly to CM Yogi’s comments, accused the UP government of applying rules selectively based on religion. Waqar questioned, “If Namaz cannot be offered on the road, then why are roads closed for Puja and Aarti? Is this the rule of law?” He further alleged that the state government viewed citizens through a religious lens and drew a difference between the Hindus and Muslims in matters concerning public gatherings.