‘Non-violence supreme, but defending nation also a duty’

Lucknow: Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday invoked India’s ancient sage tradition to highlight the importance of national security, asserting that while non-violence remains the highest virtue, force becomes a duty when the nation and society face threats.Speaking after the inauguration of the Nausena Shaurya Vatika in Lucknow, the CM referred to the Sanskrit maxim, “Ahimsa paramo dharmah,” meaning non-violence is the supreme duty. He argued that the phrase was often quoted incompletely and stressed the importance of understanding its full meaning.“We should learn to say the complete statement – Ahimsa paramo dharmah, dharma himsa tatheva cha (Non-violence should guide ordinary life, but the protection of the nation and society requires the use of force against those who pose a threat).“India’s ancient rishi tradition has always advocated peace and restraint, but it has also recognized the necessity of taking decisive action when confronted by forces that endanger national security. Non-violence cannot be applied in situations where enemies threaten the country and its people,” Yogi asserted.“If someone is a threat to the security of the nation and society, non-violence alone cannot work. In such circumstances, force becomes necessary, and that too is our duty toward the nation,” he pointed out.The CM linked this principle to the role of the Indian armed forces, saying soldiers uphold the responsibility of protecting the country under difficult and dangerous conditions.He praised the military for defending the nation’s borders, maritime interests, and internal security, describing their work as an embodiment of this doctrine.The CM said the strength and preparedness of the armed forces ensured that citizens could live peacefully and contribute to the country’s development.He argued that security and development were closely connected, with economic progress and social stability flourishing only in a safe environment.Referring to India’s global standing, Yogi said strong nations command respect and build meaningful friendships on the international stage.He maintained that weakness did not earn respect, emphasizing the need for a capable defence system and a society that values patriotism.