Lucknow, July 12 (Reporter) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday, described illegal religious conversions a calculated conspiracy to undermine the nation’s identity and social fabric, asserting that the Uttar Pradesh government is taking firm action to curb the menace. “Some forces are deliberately trying to alter the fundamental character of the country through unlawful conversions. This is an attack on social cohesion and cannot be tolerated under any circumstances,” said the Chief Minister while addressing the flagging-off ceremony of Shri Tegh Bahadur Sandesh Yatra. The ceremony was held at his official residence and dedicated to the 350th Shaheedi Varsh of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji Maharaj. CM Yogi underlined that marginalised communities, particularly Scheduled Castes, are being lured, or coerced into, changing their religion. He emphasised that such acts go against the spirit of the Constitution and the principle of social equality. At the event, the Chief Minister welcomed and honoured the Sandesh Yatra by showering flower petals. The Yatra, which commenced from Lucknow, will pass through Kanpur, Etawah, and Agra before culminating at Chandni Chowk and the historic Sis Ganj Gurudwara in Delhi—the site of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji’s martyrdom. A commemorative memento was also presented to the Chief Minister to mark the occasion. During his address, he highlighted the recent Balrampur case, where a large-scale illegal conversion racket backed by foreign funding was unearthed. He revealed that over Rs 100 crore was found transacted across 40 accounts, with pre-determined “rates” for conversion. He termed this a grave threat to both economic and social security. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that the 350-year-old legacy of martyrdom is being revived through this yatra, serving as a powerful reminder of the oppressive era under Aurangzeb’s rule. He noted that the Mughal ruler sought to suppress Sanatan Dharma and impose Islamic dominance. “In the face of tyranny, Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji chose martyrdom over compromise, standing firm on the path of righteousness,” the Chief Minister remarked. "His martyrdom continues to inspire future generations with its message of unwavering faith and courage. The entire yatra is rooted in the tradition of sacrifice and resilience. As we commemorate Shaheedi Diwas, we are reminded of the immense struggles and sacrifices that paved the way for India to emerge as a free and strong nation," he added. CM Yogi stressed the need to preserve the legacy of sacrifice set by Sikh Gurus and to resist attempts to divide Hindus and Sikhs. “Such conspiracies have been attempted before and will continue to surface, but we must remain vigilant and united,” he said. He stated that the Shaheedi Diwas inspires people to carry forward the Gurus’ legacy and adapt it to modern-day strategies to ensure no community or individual is ever forced to abandon their culture or religion. Referring to national celebrations such as the 550th Prakash Parv and the Veer Bal Diwas, the CM acknowledged the central government’s efforts to elevate these observances to national prominence. He also lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for officially declaring December 26 as Veer Bal Diwas, in honour of the martyrdom of the Sahibzadas...////...