Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath called for a united fight against casteism, regionalism and linguistic divisions, describing them as threats to national unity. He said those who regard Muhammad Ali Jinnah as an ideal and attempt to divide society cannot claim to be followers of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
Addressing a programme organised at Sardar Patel’s statue near the General Post Office (GPO) in Lucknow on his 151st birth anniversary, Yogi said true followers of Patel must place the country’s unity and security above everything else.
The Chief Minister paid floral tributes to the Iron Man of India and administered the National Unity Day pledge to those present. He described Patel as an architect of the Indian Republic, freedom fighter and committed nationalist.
Yogi noted that October 31 has been observed as National Unity Day since 2014 following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative. Activities such as unity pledges, runs and other programmes are organised to promote national integration.
Industrial and Employment Zones Planned in Every District
The Chief Minister announced that the state government has initiated the process of establishing employment and industrial zones in every district to honour Patel’s legacy and generate opportunities for young people.
He said the government was working systematically towards skill development and employment generation, adding that efforts were being made to ensure that no young person in the state remained unemployed.
Highlighting Patel’s contribution to national integration, Yogi said he played a decisive role in the integration of more than 563 princely states into the Indian Union. His leadership was particularly significant in the integration of Junagadh and Hyderabad.
He also credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi with giving global recognition to Patel’s legacy through the construction of the Statue of Unity in Gujarat’s Kevadia, the world’s tallest statue.
Targets Congress and Nehru Over Kashmir Issue
The Chief Minister also criticised the Congress and former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru over the Kashmir issue. He alleged that Nehru’s decision to retain control of the Kashmir matter and introduce Article 370 was a major mistake.
Yogi said Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah had fulfilled the vision of Sardar Patel and freedom fighter Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee by abrogating Article 370.
He added that the country now follows the principle of one Prime Minister, one Constitution and one national flag.
The Chief Minister further cautioned against attempts to challenge national unity and question constitutional institutions, calling for collective efforts to counter such developments.
Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, Cabinet Ministers Swatantra Dev Singh and Chaudhary Bhupendra Singh, Sports Minister Girish Chandra Yadav, along with several public representatives and BJP leaders, attended the programme.
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