Modi asks states to take stringent action on cow vigilantism

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday asked state governments to take strict action against cow vigilantes as he sought the support of opposition parties in tackling “communal violence” in the name of cow protection.

At an all-party meeting a day before the Monsoon Session, he also cautioned against giving political or communal colour to the issue.

“The Prime Minister urged all parties to extend their support to the government in fighting corruption and the issue of communal violence in the name of cow protection.

“Modi said state governments must ensure the maintenance of law and order and strict action must be taken against those who break the law,” an official statement quoted Modi as having said in the meeting.

Protection

Modi’s statement assumes significance as the opposition also plans to target the government on several recent instances of violence in the name of cow protection.

The Prime Minister also underscored the belief of many Hindus that cow is like mother, but said that this should not let people take law in their own hands and every state government should act against violation of the law, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar told reporters after the meeting.

Opposition parties have attacked the BJP over the cases of cow vigilantism, in which Muslims and Dalits have often been targeted.

Dignity

Modi also mentioned the presidential poll, slated tomorrow, and said it would have been very good had a consensus been reached on the candidate. He, however, said a “high level of dignity” has been maintained by both sides during the campaign and no “ill will or bad language” has been used.

He said all political parties must ensure that everybody votes and no vote is wasted.

While the ruling BJP-led National Democratic Alliance has named Ram Nath Kovind as its candidate, the Congress-led group of opposition parties has pitted Meira Kumar against Kovind,

who has a big numerical advantage over his rival.

Apparently indicating the recent cases against Trinamool Congress leaders and Rashtriya Janata Dal supremo Lalu Prasad, the Prime Minister those involved in corruption should not be saved, adding that the image of a political leader has taken a beating because of this.