Two days back poll dates were announced in Uttar Pradesh. Soon after that on Saturday BJP MP and religious leader Sakshi Maharaj made a controversial statement which triggered a fresh row. He said that the Muslim community is responsible majorly for the rise in population in the country.

According to reports, he made the intriguing remarks while speaking at the inauguration function of a temple in Meerut.

"This population rise in not because of the Hindus. The population has risen due to those who support the concept of four wives and 40 children," he reportedly said. But later went on to deny that he had said anything of that sort.

Coming under Opposition fire, the BJP commented that "the party had nothing to do with the views expressed by the leader."

“This shouldn't be seen as BJP's stand,” Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said.

Condemning the party for the offensive remarks, the Congress said that they "would bring the issue to Election Commission’s notice."

Congress leader KC Mittal told ANI, “Sakshi Maharaj’s speech based on caste and religion is very offensive. It's a violation of the MCC and the recent Supreme Court judgement” adding that the party will move EC to request action against the leader.

Even Samajwadi Party also attacked the BJP, pointing to the Supreme Court's ruling on the same.

Hindu Women should have 4 children

BY M. DIVYA SRI