LUCKNOW Samajwadi (SP) National Chairman Akhilesh Yadav, in an apparent reference to Friday’s clashes in various UP districts and elsewhere in the country, said the administration had been negligent in maintaining public order.

“India is a secular nation and the Constitution guarantees respect and safety for all religions. Any attempt to hurt the feelings of followers of any religion is deplorable and unacceptable,” he said in a statement released by the party.

India especially Uttar Pradesh is the state of “Ganga-Jamuni” culture having multi-religious, multi-language and multi-cultural traditions and it could have peace through harmony and peace. respect for each other’s feelings, Yadav said.

Hitting the ruling party, the SP leader said: “For some years the conduct has been contrary to the fundamental spirit of the Constitution. Efforts are made to divide society and spread hatred. This leads to acrimony and mutual insecurities.

He said it is the moral and constitutional responsibility of the BJP government to protect the sanctity of every community and religion.

Yadav also urged people to keep the peace and asked the government not to delay tough action against those who publish objectionable statements.

BJP Spokesman Rakesh Tripathi tweeted, “Why do such incidents of violence only happen on Jumma (Friday)?”

Congress Spokesman Anshu Awasthi said: “All that happened today was the failure of the BJP government, the failure of its law and order and its input into intelligence. Second, those who engaged in the clashes are only helping the BJP and its agenda. The government should take legal action against Nupur Sharma (for his hurtful statement).”