File photo of Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar.
Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar today held the Uttar Pradesh government responsible for the Dadri lynching incident, saying it occurred due to poor maintenance of law and order in the state.
"Dadri and other incidents are taking place in Uttar Pradesh due to poor law and order. State government is responsible for this. These incidents are being used to cover initiatives taken by Centre for economic progress and other development," Mr Parrikar said while taking to reporters in Bareilly.
"The opposition is doing petty politics on these issues. Our government wants to avoid such incidents," he added.
Terming politics on beef as a "well-planned conspiracy", Mr Parrikar said BJP leaders should shun making statements on such a sensitive issue.
"The opposition is deliberately raking up this issue in media to incite other community," he said adding that in US killing horse and dog was banned as both were related to sentiments of people there.
The Union Cabinet Minister also said efforts were on to modernise defence forces.
"Our Army is very capable. Modern arms and helicopter deals have been done to increase its strength. We are very strong on borders and attempts of infiltration are dealt with strictly and immediately," he said.
Responding to a question, the defence minister said "Ceasefire does not mean reduction in power of any country. This is an issue which cannot be discussed openly."
Asking party workers to work keeping in mind the 2017 assembly polls, Mr Parrikar advised them not to make controversial statements.
Union textiles minister Santosh Gangwar, the Bareilly MP, welcomed Mr Parrikar during his visit and apprised him about problems being faced by people of his constituency.