As fresh concerns over a resurgence of COVID-19 grip several Asian countries, Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav has sounded a strong warning to the Indian government, urging it not to repeat the “catastrophic mismanagement” seen during the second wave of the pandemic.

Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Yadav emphasized the importance of early preparedness and proactive governance. “Let this not become a repeat of the past,” he wrote, referencing the administrative delays and alleged lapses that, according to him, "cost too many lives" during the earlier phases of the crisis.

“Even the vaccine has now proven ineffective,” he further added, raising doubts about the long-term efficacy of COVID vaccines that were earlier hailed as a key achievement. He criticized the fanfare around vaccination certificates, saying, “The certificates were celebrated more than the actual results.”

While acknowledging that the present situation is not yet critical, Yadav expressed concern about the re-emergence of COVID-19 in new variants, which have triggered international alerts. “Coronavirus returns in new forms and should never be underestimated,” he warned, suggesting the virus’s unpredictability requires continuous vigilance.

He also called on the government to make better use of existing health infrastructure and information systems, ensuring that public awareness and resources are well-coordinated without creating unnecessary panic. “Avoid panic, but don’t ignore preparedness,” Yadav cautioned.

His remarks come as public health officials across Asia, including in India, monitor a spike in new infections attributed to emerging subvariants of the virus. Though the current numbers remain manageable, experts have advised reinforced surveillance, hospital readiness, and public awareness campaigns.