Demonetisation associated with 'patriotism', harming country: Akhilesh Yadav

Lucknow: Demonetisation, which has been associated with “patriotism” is harming the country and those advocating it will be taught a lesson by people, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav said on Monday.

“Some are saying that the Centre has done a good job. They will be taught a lesson by people when they go to polls. The country is not benefited by it (demonetisation).

“The scheme which is associated with patriotism is harming the country. Development works going on a good pace have stopped. The economy is going slow. The government (at Centre) has pushed the economy back and confused the country,” he said.

The Chief Minister was speaking after launching ‘Shadi Anudaan’ scheme under which Rs 20,000 is being given by the state government for solemnising marriages in poor families.

Coming down heavily on the Modi government’s surprise demonetisation move, the SP leader said, “The new Rs 2,000 notes will help those having black money. The only difference is that those who used to keep Rs 1,000 notes are now having Rs 2,000 notes.”

The Chief Minister added that urban and rural poor would be given help for constructing houses and the agenda would be included in the party manifesto for the 2017 UP Assembly polls.