Poonam Sharma
Indian politics often moves quietly—until suddenly, the smoke becomes visible. In Uttar Pradesh, that smoke is now thick enough to spark intense speculation. While there is no official confirmation or concrete evidence of any dramatic political shift, the evolving narrative around Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath suggests that something deeper may be unfolding beneath the surface.
The trigger appears to be the January 18 incident involving controversial Shankaracharya Avimukteshwaranand and the Uttar Pradesh Police. What should have remained a limited confrontation between a religious figure and the state administration gradually transformed into a larger political discourse. More interestingly, the narrative drifted from Avimukteshwaranand vs the UP Government to BJP vs Yogi Adityanath—a shift that raises eyebrows.
A Carefully Engineered Narrative?
Sections of religious leaders openly aligned themselves with Avimukteshwaranand. Their criticism, however, did not focus on the police or bureaucracy. Instead, it appeared sharply directed at Yogi Adityanath himself. This subtle but deliberate targeting suggests a political undercurrent rather than a purely religious protest.
Adding another layer to this complex situation is the quiet positioning of Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya. Political observers recall that in 2017, Maurya was widely expected to become the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh—until a last-minute strategic decision by Narendra Modi and Amit Shah elevated Yogi Adityanath instead. Since then, Maurya has remained patient, visible, and politically relevant.
Now, with Akhilesh Yadav already sharing ideological space with Avimukteshwaranand, Maurya’s seemingly neutral—or carefully calibrated—responses are being interpreted by some as strategic silence. Whether intentional or coincidental, this has fueled speculation that internal realignments may be underway.
The Modi–Shah Question
The biggest question dominating political circles today is this: What is the long-term plan of Narendra Modi and Amit Shah regarding Yogi Adityanath?
Opinion is sharply divided. One camp believes that before the 2027 Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections, the BJP leadership may take a decisive call on Yogi’s future. Such a move, critics argue, may not sit well with a significant section of Hindu society that increasingly views Yogi as Modi’s natural political successor.
The counter-argument is equally strong. The BJP’s central leadership has historically prioritized social engineering and electoral arithmetic over individual popularity. According to some analysts, the party could project an OBC face—possibly Keshav Prasad Maurya or another leader—to consolidate caste equations in 2027.
Two Brands, One Party
There is no denying that Narendra Modi and Yogi Adityanath are both powerful political brands—each commanding loyalty, symbolism, and mass appeal.
Modi’s brand is built on economic reform, global diplomacy, and inclusive development under the banner of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas.” His success in strengthening India’s global standing and managing complex international relationships is widely acknowledged.
Yogi Adityanath, on the other hand, represents uncompromising governance. His image as a strict administrator, a defender of Hindu interests, and a leader who transformed Uttar Pradesh’s law-and-order narrative has earned him a distinct following. For many supporters, Yogi is “tried and tested”—a leader who delivered where others hesitated.
Uttar Pradesh under Yogi is often projected as a future-ready model for India: assertive, disciplined, and politically decisive.
Is Yogi Being Sidelined?
The real concern emerging from this political smoke is whether Yogi Adityanath’s face value—his mass appeal and ideological clarity—is being quietly undercut. While no direct confrontation is visible, the alignment of religious figures, opposition leaders, and internal party dynamics hints at a carefully layered strategy.
The remote control, as many believe, still lies in Delhi.
Conclusion
Smoke does not rise without fire. Uttar Pradesh today is emitting political smoke—subtle, strategic, and unsettling. Whether this leads to a controlled course correction or a major realignment remains uncertain. But one thing is clear: Yogi Adityanath is no longer just a Chief Minister. He is a political force whose future decisions—or decisions taken about him—will shape not just Uttar Pradesh, but the trajectory of Indian politics itself.
