Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath stated on Monday that offering Namaz (prayers) on public roads should not be permitted. He emphasized that such practices could disrupt traffic and cause inconvenience to the general public. He further added that roads are meant for commuting and daily travel, and they should not be utilized for gatherings that obstruct public spaces.
The Chief Minister suggested that religious practices involving large congregations should be managed in an organized manner—including holding them in shifts or utilizing designated places of worship—so that public order and daily life remain unaffected.
“I am often asked whether people in Uttar Pradesh truly do not offer Namaz on the roads. I state clearly that this absolutely does not happen—go and see for yourselves. Roads are meant for commuting. Can just anyone come and create a spectacle at a crossroads, bringing traffic to a halt? What right does anyone have to obstruct public movement?” he asked.
Addressing concerns related to crowd management, the Chief Minister further remarked that religious gatherings should not cause inconvenience to others.
“Some people asked me, ‘How will this work? Our numbers are too large.’ We replied that it can be done in shifts. If there isn’t enough space at home, manage the numbers accordingly. Unnecessary crowding should not be encouraged,” he said.
“If you wish to offer Namaz, you may do so during your designated shift. We will persuade you gently; however, if you do not agree, we will adopt a different approach,” Yogi added.
He further commented that people should be encouraged to observe their religious practices without disrupting public order, adding that the administration would ensure discipline in public spaces.
The Chief Minister also stated that efforts would be made to maintain order through persuasion and dialogue.