Yogi Adityanath Rejects Superstition, Says Noida Visit Will Not Cost CM Chair

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently addressed a widely held superstition in the state, stating that visiting Noida does not endanger his position as the Chief Minister. Speaking at a programme at Lok Bhawan in Lucknow, a day after inaugurating the Jewar Airport in Noida, Yogi recalled that soon after assuming office, he was advised against visiting the city. According to him, past chief ministers who visited Noida allegedly ended up losing their positions.

“I was told not to go to Noida. I asked why. They said chief ministers do not go there. I asked, is Noida outside Uttar Pradesh? They said no, but there is a belief that if a chief minister goes there, they lose their position,” Yogi said. He added in Hindi, “Toh hamne kaha ki ek din toh kursi ko jaana hi hai, toh kursi ke moh mein ham kyon padein? Main wahan zarur jaunga. Aur main gaya.” (Then I said that one day the position has to go anyway, so why should we get attached to it? I will definitely go there. And I did go.)

Yogi emphasized that he follows faith rather than superstition and respects everyone’s beliefs, but does not let such notions influence his decisions. “People think that I believe in superstition, but that is absolutely not true. I believe in faith and respect everyone’s beliefs, but I completely reject superstition,” he said.

The Chief Minister also took a swipe at the previous Samajwadi Party-led government in Uttar Pradesh, accusing it of mishandling several projects. He specifically pointed out the Jai Prakash Narayan International Centre (JPNIC) in Lucknow, which was initially estimated at ₹200 crore but ended up costing ₹800 crore without completion. “This is the Samajwadi Party’s model of development. A project originally estimated at ₹200 crore ended up costing ₹800 crore. With what audacity do they speak of development?” Yogi remarked.

Regarding the Jewar Airport, Yogi highlighted its significance for the state, stating that it is Asia’s largest airport and will generate employment for over 1 lakh young people when fully operational. He also noted the transformation of Noida from being considered a crime-prone area to a thriving investment destination, crediting the state government’s efficiency and “double-engine” approach.

Yogi’s remarks reinforce his image as a leader who prioritizes development and strategic decisions over superstitions while drawing contrasts with previous administrations.