Yogi Adityanath, the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, strongly warned against making disparaging statements about saints, great individuals, or deities from any faith or sect, threatening to “punish vigorously” anybody who does so. His remarks coincide with increasing demands for action in response to hate speech directed at Prophet Muhammad by Yati Narsinghanand, a priest at the Dasna temple. Numerous Muslim organizations and prominent figures have called for the priest’s arrest.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made a point of saying that “anarchy, vandalism, or arson in the name of protest” will not be allowed when speaking to high-ranking state officials, such as the chief secretary and DGP. He declared that there will be severe repercussions for anybody engaged in such acts. The chief minister emphasized the value of respecting each other’s religious views and sects.

“Every citizen should have a sense of gratitude towards great men, but this cannot be forced and cannot be imposed on anyone,” he said. He emphasized the need for religious tolerance by threatening legal repercussions for anybody interfering with or making disparaging statements about any religion.

A video of the priest’s followers making the comments is making the rounds on social media, and another formal complaint has been made against them for identical offenses.

In addition, the chief minister gave law enforcement instructions to guarantee that future holidays be observed in a calm manner. He gave his officers orders to find anybody trying to disturb the peace and to deal with them harshly.

CM Adityanath also demanded more foot patrols and improved safety precautions in crowded locations, especially for women. “Identify the people who are ruining the mood and deal with them harshly. Handle those who operate against the law with strictness,” he said.