Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday called for national unity and respect for India’s founding figures, warning against divisive forces attempting to create division in the society.

Speaking in Gorakhpur during the ‘Ekta Yatra’ held to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Chief Minister said, “No new Jinnah should ever arise within India, and if anyone dares to follow in his footsteps, they must be stopped before they pose a threat.”

He criticised those who fail to honour national heroes, saying, “On October 31, people do not participate in programmes celebrating Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s birth anniversary but shamefully attend events honouring Jinnah. We must remember that if our heroes are not respected, what will happen to our nation?”

‘Vande Mataram’ to become mandatory in schools

Adityanath also announced that singing the national song Vande Mataram would be made mandatory in all schools and colleges across Uttar Pradesh.

“Every school and college should recite and sing Vande Mataram with pride and a sense of gratitude,” he said, adding that it was essential to nurture patriotism and unity among the youth.

The Chief Minister urged citizens to identify and act against those seeking to weaken India’s integrity and harmony. “We must effectively counter the factors that divide society on religious or ideological lines. No Jinnahs should be born in the future to challenge India’s integrity,” he added.

The Ekta Yatra (Unity March) was organised as part of statewide celebrations honouring the “Iron Man of India”, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Adityanath said the event symbolised a collective call for unity and awareness among citizens.

“Today’s Ekta Yatra is a message to every Indian to rise above divisions and work together for a stronger, united India,” he said, concluding his address with an appeal for national pride and respect for the country’s heritage.

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