Lucknow : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has firmly stated that making derogatory remarks about deities, revered figures, or saints of any religion or sect is unacceptable and those responsible will face stringent punishment. His comments come in the wake of controversial remarks made by Dasna temple priest Yati Narsinghanand against Prophet Muhammad.
During a review of the law and order situation with the chief secretary, Director General of Police (DGP), and other officials, Adityanath emphasized that acts of anarchy, vandalism, or arson carried out under the guise of protest are intolerable. He assured that anyone engaging in such activities will be held accountable.
The Chief Minister underscored the importance of respecting the faiths of all religious communities. “Every citizen should feel grateful towards great individuals, but this gratitude cannot be enforced or imposed on anyone,” Adityanath stated in an official release. He further added, “If someone disrespects the faith of revered figures, deities, or sects, they will be prosecuted under the law, and all religious communities must uphold mutual respect.”
Adityanath’s remarks address the recent incident involving Priest Yati Narsinghanand, whose offensive comments about Prophet Muhammad have sparked widespread condemnation. Muslim organizations, along with political parties such as the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), National Conference, and Samajwadi Party, have demanded the priest’s arrest.
On October 3, Sub-inspector Trivendra Singh filed an FIR against Narsinghanand for making derogatory remarks against a community during an event at Hindi Bhavan in Lohiya Naga on September 19. The remarks were deemed a violation of Section 302 of the Bombay Narcotic Substances (BNS), which addresses offenses related to intentionally hurting someone’s religious sentiments. Additionally, Bhanu Prakash Singh, Sub-inspector and Area Beat In-Charge of Dasna area at Wave City Police Station, lodged another FIR against the priest’s disciples—Anil Yadav Chota Narsimahanand, Yati Ran Singhanand, Yati Ram Swaroopanand, and Yati Nirbhayanand—accusing them of making objectionable statements, which were subsequently shared on social media.
In his statement, Adityanath directed the police administration to ensure that upcoming festivals are celebrated peacefully and harmoniously. “Identify those who disrupt the peace and take strict action against them. Strictly deal with those who violate the law,” he instructed.
Addressing women’s safety, the Chief Minister called for increased foot patrolling and the deployment of more police response vehicles in crowded areas. “The safety and convenience of women must be prioritized,” he affirmed.
Adityanath’s strong stance underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining religious harmony and ensuring public safety, while also addressing the recent tensions arising from inflammatory remarks made by religious figures.
