Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took aim at the opposition on National Unity Day, saying that people who consider Muhammad Ali Jinnah their role model and attempt to divide society cannot be true followers of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He said those who follow Patel’s ideals place India’s unity, integrity and security above everything else. According to the Chief Minister, forces dividing society along caste, regional and linguistic lines pose a threat to national unity.

Yogi Pays Tribute to Sardar Patel on 151st Birth Anniversary
On Saturday, Yogi Adityanath paid floral tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s statue at the General Post Office (GPO) in Lucknow on the occasion of his 151st birth anniversary. He also participated in the National Unity Day programme and administered the unity pledge to those present. The Chief Minister said the pledge reflected the ideals and spirit to which Patel had dedicated his life.

Casteism and Regionalism Weaken Society, Says CM
Comparing social divisions to a weakened immune system, Yogi said that casteism, regionalism and linguistic divisions make society vulnerable. He added that such weaknesses create opportunities for divisive forces and external aggressors. The Chief Minister stressed the need to protect society from these tendencies and strengthen unity among people.

Patel’s Ideals Linked to National Security
Yogi described Sardar Patel as a freedom fighter, a strong nationalist leader and one of the architects of the Republic of India. He said a collective commitment to safeguarding the country's unity, integrity and security would be the most meaningful tribute to the Iron Man of India.