Yogi Adityanath

Yogi Adityanath was appointed Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in March 2017 after the BJP won a landslide victory in the state assembly election. His appointment marked a shift towards a more assertive Hindu nationalist governance style in India's most populous state.

Adityanath launched the 'One District, One Product' (ODOP) scheme to promote traditional industries and handicrafts in each district of Uttar Pradesh. The scheme aimed to boost local economies, create jobs, and preserve cultural heritage.

Adityanath's government promulgated an ordinance against unlawful religious conversions, particularly targeting conversions through marriage or force. The law was criticized by opposition parties as discriminatory against minorities, while supporters argued it protected women from fraud.

Adityanath's government managed the COVID-19 pandemic in Uttar Pradesh, implementing lockdowns, setting up hospitals, and conducting mass testing. The state faced challenges including a severe second wave in 2021, with reports of oxygen shortages and overwhelmed healthcare facilities.

Adityanath's government ordered the demolition of properties belonging to individuals accused of crimes, including those involved in the 2020 Delhi riots and the Hathras case. The actions were criticized by human rights groups as extrajudicial punishment, while the government cited legal provisions.