Akhilesh Yadav slams political use of historical icons, yet vows grand statue of Maharana Pratap if elected to power

In an indirect response to Yogi Adityanath's remarks on Maharana Pratap's life being a source of inspiration in these trying times, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav said that great men belonged to everyone and that their names should not be used for political gains. 

Yet, he also stated that if his party came to power, it would install the country’s most impressive statue of the Rajput ruler on the Gomti Riverfront—one of Yadav's pet projects. He also said that the sword of the statue would be made of gold.

He demanded that the government declare a two-day holiday on Maharana Pratap's birth anniversary.

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Yadav said that the entire country was proud of its bravehearts and that it stood behind them. 

Though he declared that times of crisis demanded greater understanding, he did criticise the state government for not being able to provide jobs—as he did for harassing local businesses while setting out welcome carpets for foreign investors. 

Like Yogi Adityanath, he also appealed to his countrymen not to believe in any unconfirmed news and information. He also asked people to refrain from propagating false information and broadcasting them any further. 

He cautioned that such news could well be lies spread by the country's enemies. He said it could also be a trick or conspiracy of the enemy. 

Individuals should neither get misled or provoked. Every one should behave responsibly at their own level. He urged people to stay calm and inspire others to do the same. 

India