India, Feb. 17 -- Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday said "opposing" Vande Mataram and making "insulting remarks" against national symbols was no less than treason. He accused the Samajwadi Party and Congress of misleading people in the name of the Constitution and disrespecting the National Song.

Speaking in the Legislative Council during the Budget Session, Adityanath said the state takes pride in its heritage and believes that development rooted in legacy lays the foundation of a bright future. However, he said, if anyone glorifies "invaders" who "attacked the soul of India" and tried to shackle its faith for political gains, "the new India and the new Uttar Pradesh will not accept it." "You see how statements are ...