Lucknow, October 2026: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has described the brightly illuminated markets and commercial establishments operating at night in the state as a reflection of traders' confidence, highlighting the changes in the state's law and order situation since 2017.
In a post on social media platform X, the Chief Minister questioned the functioning of previous governments and said that before 2017, business activities would begin to decline after sunset due to crime and insecurity.
Women's confidence reflects social progress
Yogi said that the brightly lit markets and business establishments in the new Uttar Pradesh at night represent not just commercial activity but also the growing confidence of traders.
He added that the confidence of women working night shifts and performing their professional responsibilities without fear is not merely an individual achievement but a symbol of progress across society.
Families were concerned about women's safety before 2017
The Chief Minister said that the atmosphere of safety and confidence currently seen in Uttar Pradesh was not always present.
Before 2017, crime and insecurity often restricted commercial activities after sunset. Families were also concerned about the safety of women who had to work late into the night, he said.
Double-engine government changed the situation
According to Yogi, the situation changed under the double-engine government with the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
He said the government's zero-tolerance policy towards crime and criminals strengthened law and order and made women's safety a priority.
"Today, markets remain open even at night. Traders are getting new opportunities to expand their businesses, while our daughters are moving ahead through their talent and hard work in a safe environment," the Chief Minister said in his post.
Women's workforce participation rises to 36 per cent
Yogi also highlighted the increase in women's labour force participation in Uttar Pradesh, stating that it had risen from approximately 13 per cent in 2017 to 36 per cent currently.
He described the increase as a strong expression of women's growing confidence, economic strength and self-reliance.
The Chief Minister said the changing environment reflected the emergence of a new Uttar Pradesh progressing from "security to prosperity".
He added that the confidence of women working in night shifts and the expansion of commercial activities after sunset represented important aspects of the state's changing social and economic landscape.
