CM's 'Babar DNA' barb raises Sambhal tension

Political slugfest continues

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The actions of Mughal-era king Babar's commander in Ayodhya and Sambhal 500 years ago bore the same DNA and intent as events happening in Bangladesh now, Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath said on Thursday, sparking a political controversy over the communally divisive issue.

Adityanath was in Ayodhya to inaugurate the Ramayan Mela at the Ram Katha Park. He appeared to be hinting at the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid dispute and the recent violence during a court-ordered survey at the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal town that killed four people and left 20 others injured.

In both cases, Hindu groups alleged that Mughal rulers demolished temples to build mosques, and demanded the land back as compensation.

"Look at the kind of acts our enemies in neighboring countries are committing. Remember this, if anyone is under any illusion... 500 years ago, a general of Babar committed certain deeds in Ayodhya, similar acts in Sambhal, and what is happening today in Bangladesh -- the nature and DNA of all three are the same," Adityanath said.

He was referring to the recent controversy around the treatment of Hindu minority groups in Bangladesh and the trial of a Hindu monk that have damaged bilateral ties and sparked protests in a number of states.

"Had we given importance to unity and not let the strategy of nation's enemies succeed in creating social animosity, this country would have never become a slave. Our pilgrimages would not have been desecrated. A handful of invaders would not have dared to invade us and would be crushed by India's brave soldiers," the CM said.