Yogi: The Confluence of Two Currents – Firmness and Compassion

The opinion piece by Manish Khemka looks at two sides of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s governance. It links tough action on crime with interventions during Janata Darshan to argue that firmness and compassion can exist together in public administration.

When two seemingly opposite currents- firmness and compassion, flow through the same personality and together lend it completeness, it is a reflection of an abiding commitment to the fundamental spirit of justice. Firmness refuses to tolerate oppression, while compassion inspires one to alleviate the suffering and pain of others. It is generally believed that a ruler who is strict in enforcing the law may lack sensitivity. Yet, two recent incidents in Uttar Pradesh have revealed two distinct facets of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s personality. In one, he appears with the sword of justice in his hand; in the other, with the lamp of compassion. He is so unwavering when it comes to law and order that he is unwilling to spare criminals at any cost. At the same time, the pain reflected in the eyes of a helpless brother deeply moves him. It is this duality that elevates him far beyond an ordinary administrator and makes him a leader who resides in the hearts of the people.

The brutal murder of Ankit Baliyan in Shamli had shaken not only his entire family but the whole state. At such moments, the foremost expectation of a bereaved family is swift and decisive justice. This is where the Chief Minister’s firm administrative approach comes to the fore. The police were immediately given clear instructions to apprehend the........

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