No Tolerance for Insulting Religious Figures
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath issued a strong warning against derogatory comments directed at religious figures October 7, saints, or deities from any faith. His statement comes following controversial remarks made by Yati Narsinghanand, a priest from Dasna temple, about Prophet Muhammad. The chief minister emphasized that those engaging in such acts would face strict punishment.
Reviewing the law and order situation with senior officials, Adityanath made it clear: “Anarchy, vandalism or arson in the name of protest is not acceptable. Whoever dares to do this will have to pay the price for it.”
Respect for All Religions
Adityanath stressed the importance of mutual respect for all religious beliefs, stating that every sect and religion deserves respect. He added, “Every citizen should have a sense of gratitude towards great men, but this cannot be forced or imposed.” If anyone crosses the line by making offensive remarks about deities, saints, or religious figures, they will face legal consequences.
These comments follow growing demands for action against Narsinghanand, with Muslim organizations and political leaders from the BSP, National Conference, and Samajwadi Party calling for his arrest.
Police Action Against Narsinghanand and Others
Narsinghanand, who has faced multiple FIRs for his offensive comments, is under investigation. On October 3, an FIR was lodged by Sub-inspector Trivendra Singh against Narsinghanand, accusing him of making inflammatory remarks during an event on September 19. Singh noted that Narsinghanand’s comments, including urging people to burn effigies of Prophet Muhammad, violated laws related to religious sentiments.
Another FIR was filed by Bhanu Prakash Singh, a sub-inspector in the Dasna area, against Narsinghanand’s disciples. The disciples, including Anil Yadav (Chota Narsinghanand), were accused of making objectionable statements, which were later circulated on social media.
Escalation of Threats
Following the backlash, Anil Yadav, Narsinghanand’s aide, made further inflammatory comments. In a video shared online, Yadav claimed that Narsinghanand’s original remarks had been misinterpreted and warned that if effigies of Narsinghanand continued to be burned, they would retaliate by burning effigies of Prophet Muhammad, Ali, and Abu Bakar Siddiq. This statement has led to additional protests and FIRs filed across multiple states, including in Hyderabad and Maharashtra.
Call for Peace and Women’s Safety
Amid the rising tensions, Adityanath directed police forces to ensure peace during upcoming festivals. He instructed that law enforcement officials maintain order and prevent any attempts to disturb the communal harmony. “Identify those who spoil the atmosphere and take strict action against them,” he said.
The chief minister also focused on women’s safety, urging increased foot patrols and police presence in crowded areas to ensure women feel safe and protected during festival celebrations.