BJP seeks apology from UP CM over saffron flags in mock drill

New Delhi, Jun 27: Attacking the Uttar Pradesh government over use of saffron flags by rioters in a police mock drill, BJP today termed the incident a "communal ploy" by the Samajwadi party and sought an apology from Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav.

BJP said the state police deliberately used saffron flags to "divert" people's attention from the flak it is facing over its handling of law and order problem. "It is reflective of the Akhilesh Yadav government's divisive politics. It has failed in maintaining law and order and using such methods to communalise the debate over its failure," party secretary Shrikant Sharma said.

"The Chief Minister should apologise for hurting the feelings of millions who associate their faith with the saffron colour," he said. The BJP leader stated that the incident is an example of "divisive politics and diversionary tactic." Rioters in a mock drill of the Uttar Pradesh police yesterday were allegedly seen using saffron flags in Allahabad, provoking a row.

The policemen were learning ways to disperse rioters during the drill. Asked about the incident, IG Public Grievances, A M Jain told reporters, "Props are used in mock drill of the police. I am not aware of this particular case. Senior officers were present there during the drill, they will see to it."

PTI