Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Wednesday said his government will take firm action against anyone attempting to alter the demography of the state through deceptive practices. At the same time, he stressed that the administration is not acting with discrimination against any particular community.
Speaking at the Hindustan Summit–Uttarakhand 2026 organised by the Hindi daily Hindustan, Dhami said the government is guided by the principle of inclusive development. He reiterated the Centre’s mantra of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Vikas and Sabka Prayas,” underlining that governance decisions are meant to benefit all sections of society.
The chief minister said his government has been working continuously in line with public sentiment over the past four years and has taken several major decisions that reflect people’s expectations. According to him, maintaining the cultural and social character of Uttarakhand — often referred to as Devbhoomi — remains a key priority.
Addressing concerns about alleged demographic changes, Dhami clarified that the government’s actions are not motivated by bias. However, he warned that any attempt to change the character of the state through deceitful means will invite strict legal action.
“Our actions are not driven by discrimination,” the chief minister said. “But we will act firmly against those who try to change the character of Devbhoomi through dishonest practices.”
He also spoke strongly on the issue of encroachments. The chief minister said illegal occupation of land in any form is unacceptable and the state government is removing such encroachments wherever they are found.
Dhami emphasised that Uttarakhand has a long tradition of social harmony and peaceful coexistence. However, he added that the government will not tolerate violations of land and planning laws.
Responding to comparisons between enforcement drives in Uttarakhand and neighbouring states such as Uttar Pradesh, Dhami again clarified that the actions are not directed against any specific community. He said the objective is simply to uphold the rule of law and preserve the identity of the hill state.
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During his address, the chief minister also highlighted improvements in the state’s mining sector. He said the implementation of a new mining policy has significantly increased revenue collections.
According to Dhami, Uttarakhand earlier earned around ₹400 crore annually from mining. Over the past two years, the figure has crossed ₹1,200 crore per year, indicating what he described as stronger regulation and better transparency in the sector.
He added that the Union government has recognised these improvements by granting incentives of ₹100 crore each for two consecutive years under the Special Assistance Scheme.
The chief minister further pointed to several legislative measures taken by his government, calling them “unprecedented steps.” These include the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code, enforcement of a stricter anti-conversion law and the abolition of the Madrasa Board.
Dhami said these decisions were aimed at strengthening law and order, ensuring administrative uniformity and safeguarding the state’s social fabric. He maintained that the government remains committed to taking bold policy steps when required.
Looking ahead, the chief minister announced preparations for the Kumbh Mela to be held in Haridwar in 2027. He described the upcoming event as being planned on a “grand and divine” scale.
Dhami said he has personally chaired more than ten review meetings to monitor preparations for the major religious gathering, which attracts millions of devotees from across India and abroad.
He also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the Centre’s support, noting that ₹500 crore has already been released to help with preparations for the 2027 Kumbh.
The chief minister concluded by reiterating that his government remains focused on balanced development, strong law enforcement and preservation of Uttarakhand’s cultural identity. While emphasising inclusive governance, he made it clear that authorities will continue to act firmly wherever they detect illegal activities, encroachments or attempts to manipulate the demographic character of the state.
His remarks signal that the government intends to maintain a tough administrative stance while continuing to frame its policies within the broader message of inclusive growth and public welfare.
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