“No Namaz on roads” : UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath warns of “another method” if rules are ignored

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday said that offering namaz on the street is no longer permitted and that religious activities should not obstruct public movement.

Speaking on the issue, the Chief Minister said, “Roads are meant for walking . No one has the right to disrupt public movement.” He added that prayers should be offered at designated places instead of on streets and highways. “I am often asked, 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. Roads are meant for movement. Can anyone come and create a ‘tamasha’ (spectacle) at a crossroads and block traffic? What right does anyone have to disrupt public movement? How will it work, our numbers are large?”

Yogi Adityanath suggested a “shift system” for worship where necessary, saying arrangements can be made so that religious practices do not create inconvenience for the public or affect traffic movement. He said,” It can be done in shifts. You have to offer namaz, you can read it during your shift.”

The Chief Minister emphasized, “Sadak par namaz nahi padhne denge. Pyaar se maane to theek, nahi to doosra tareeka apnaenge,” which translates to, “We will not allow namaz on roads. If people agree peacefully, it is fine; otherwise, another method will be adopted.

The statement meant that the Uttar Pradesh government would strictly enforce its policy against offering namaz on public roads.

The remark was seen as a strong warning from the Chief Minister while defending the government’s position that public roads should not be used for religious gatherings or prayers.

The remarks come amid continued restrictions in several districts of Uttar Pradesh on offering Friday Namaz on roads and public spaces. Local administrations have allegedly instructed people to offer prayers only at mosques and designated Eidgahs in order to maintain law and order.

The comments have triggered political reactions and debate online. Supporters of the government’s stand said roads should remain clear for commuters and emergency services, while critics argued that the statements specifically targeted the Muslim community and raised concerns over religious freedom.
A social media user argued, ”Prayer can be offered at home too, right? Why do they have to do it on the road?” another criticised it by saying “Why don’t the same rules apply during Kawar Yatra, Ganesh Chaturthi, Katha kirtan, Holi and Diwali?”