Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has issued a strong statement condemning derogatory remarks against deities, saints, or great figures of any religion or sect, emphasizing the need for Religious Harmony in Uttar Pradesh. His remarks come in the wake of the controversy surrounding Dasna temple priest Yati Narsinghanand's comments against Prophet Muhammad. Adityanath emphasized that such actions are "unacceptable" and promised that those involved would face strict legal consequences.

CM Adityanath's call for religious harmony

During a meeting to review the law and order situation with key officials, including the chief secretary and the Director General of Police (DGP), the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of mutual respect among different religious groups. He made it clear that “anarchy, vandalism, or arson in the name of protest” would not be tolerated in Uttar Pradesh. Adityanath stressed that those engaging in such activities would be held accountable.

Religious Harmony in Uttar Pradesh
Image Source: PNG Images for Designer FREE

"Every citizen should respect the beliefs and sentiments of all religions and sects," Adityanath said, adding that while respect cannot be forced, people must refrain from making offensive comments. “If any individual insults the faith of great men, saints, or deities, they will be held accountable under the law and punished rigorously,” he said. The Chief Minister urged all communities to respect each other’s beliefs.

Controversy around Yati Narsinghanand’s remarks

Adityanath's comments follow the uproar caused by Narsinghanand’s remarks against Prophet Muhammad, which have sparked protests from several Muslim organizations and leaders of political parties, including the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), National Conference, and the Samajwadi Party. They have all called for strict action against the priest.

Narsinghanand’s comments led to the filing of two First Information Reports (FIRs). One FIR was lodged by Sub-inspector Trivendra Singh, citing derogatory remarks made during an event at Hindi Bhavan in Lohiya Nagar on September 19. Another FIR, filed by Sub-inspector Bhanu Prakash Singh of the Wave City Police Station, also implicated several of Narsinghanand’s disciples, including Anil Yadav Chota Narsimahanand and Yati Ram Swaroopanand. A video of the remarks made by these individuals had circulated on social media.

Law and order, women’s safety to be priorities

In addition to his remarks on religious harmony, the Chief Minister directed the police to ensure that upcoming festivals in the state are celebrated peacefully. He urged law enforcement officers to identify and take swift action against those who might attempt to disrupt public order. Adityanath emphasized that maintaining peace during festivals is a priority.

Addressing the issue of women’s safety, the Chief Minister also instructed the police to increase foot patrolling and intensify the presence of police response vehicles in busy areas to ensure the safety of women. He reiterated that the safety and convenience of women must be a priority for the police force across the state.

Yogi Adityanath's firm stance on derogatory comments and his call for mutual respect among different religious groups reflect his administration’s commitment to maintaining law and order, while ensuring the safety and harmony of all citizens.

You might also be interested in - Akbarnagar has been renamed as “Saumitra Van”, announces Yogi Adityanath