Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami Reiterates Firm Stand on Illegal Encroachments and Madrasa Reforms at Gita Mahotsav

Kurukshetra, Nov 2025 : Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Saturday reaffirmed his government’s strong stance on reclaiming public land, shutting down illegally operated madrasas, and countering what he described as “divisive and extremist forces” in the state. Speaking at the International Gita Mahotsav in Kurukshetra, he said his government is unwavering in its mission to protect “Devbhoomi” from encroachers and unlawful activities.

Addressing the gathering, CM Dhami said that his administration has reclaimed thousands of acres of public land from what he termed as “land jihadis” and has already shut down 250 illegal madrasas. He further stated that the government will continue its crackdown on institutions that do not follow the curriculum approved by the Uttarakhand Education Board. “From July 1, 2026, the Madrasa Board will be dissolved. Any madrasa that refuses to adopt the state’s prescribed syllabus will be closed. We cannot allow institutions that promote separatist or extremist mindsets to flourish in Devbhoomi,” he said.

The Chief Minister added that temples and centres of traditional knowledge would be promoted instead. “We want to strengthen institutions that spread wisdom, spirituality, and cultural values,” Dhami said.

Drawing philosophical inspiration from the Bhagavad Gita, he said that its teachings guide him in making decisions in governance, public welfare, and personal life. “The Gita inspires us to rise above self-interest and work for the nation. It teaches that service to society is the highest form of duty,” he said. He noted that the scripture is being studied globally for its relevance in management, leadership, and emotional resilience.

Dhami highlighted that school students in Uttarakhand are being encouraged to recite Gita shlokas to instill discipline, cultural grounding, and values in young minds. “Apart from spiritual enrichment, the Gita teaches us how to navigate challenges and move ahead in life,” he said.

Underlining the state’s progressive reforms, Dhami reiterated that Uttarakhand is the first and only state in India to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC), which governs marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption across all faiths. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for accelerating Uttarakhand’s development and modernisation.

He also spoke about the government’s initiatives to enhance the spiritual tourism experience in the state. Efforts are underway to beautify pilgrimage regions such as Kedar Khand and Manas Khand. Dhami announced that the government is preparing to develop a “Shri Krishna–Yamuna Tirth Circuit,” aimed at strengthening the state’s spiritual and cultural tourism footprint.

Earlier, in a message on X, the Chief Minister noted that Uttarakhand is rapidly emerging as the “spiritual capital of the world.” He highlighted the proposed “Centre for Hindu Studies” at Doon University, calling it a major milestone in promoting India’s ancient knowledge systems.

He said the centre will integrate research on the Vedas, Upanishads, Hindu philosophy, art, culture, and yoga with modern academic methodologies. “Through global collaborations, formal study programmes, and research-driven initiatives, this centre will help establish Uttarakhand as a leading international hub for Indian knowledge traditions,” Dhami stated.

With strong declarations on law, culture, and development, Dhami’s address at the Gita Mahotsav reaffirmed his government’s commitment to safeguarding Uttarakhand’s cultural identity while driving holistic progress.