BJP distances from Rijiju's beef remarks, says issue shouldn't be politicised

The BJP on Wednesday distanced itself from Union minister <g data-gr-id="16">Kiren</g> <g data-gr-id="17">Rijiju's</g> reported comment on beef eating, saying the issue involves "great religious sentiments" and should not be dragged into the political domain.

Taking on his ministerial colleague Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi over his remark that those who cannot live without eating beef should go to Pakistan or some Arab country, Rijiju had reportedly said in Mizoram's capital <g data-gr-id="23">Aizwal</g>, "I eat beef, I am from Arunachal Pradesh, can somebody stop me? So let us not be touchy about somebody's practices." Asked about the row, BJP spokesperson <g data-gr-id="24">Sambit</g> Patra said, "As far as <g data-gr-id="21">beef</g> ban is concerned, it is a matter of great religious sentiments across the length and breadth of the country. So I would not pull this issue in the political domain."

Pressed by reporters whether BJP believes that Rijiju has hurt sentiments, he said, "There is a religious feeling about this in India. I have made it clear that it would be better if we do not use it for <g data-gr-id="20">political</g> fight. I would rather respect the sensitivities of people than answer it politically." Rijiju earlier today clarified his comment saying he never said he ate beef but insisted that no restrictions can be put on food habits in a secular country like India.