Controversy over 'Modi vs Yogi' posters

A massive controversy erupted after 'Modi vs Yogi' posters appeared in different parts of the state capital on Wednesday. The police decided to register an FIR and launched a hunt against those who behind the poster.

The posters, which say "Yogi lao desh bachao" (bring Yogi to save the country) and compare Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, carry the name of Uttar Pradesh Navnirman Sena (UPNS), a little-known outfit.

The president of the outfit Amit Jani, who had triggered a controversy a few years ago by allegedly damaging a statue of B R Ambedkar in Meerut.

Jani was booked by the police for defamation and damaging public property, sources said, adding that the posters were removed by the cops.

The UPNS has convened a 'dharm sansad' (religious meet) here for February 10 at the sprawling Ramabai Ambedkar Park here to discuss "issues concerning the Hindus".

"Time has come for the country to choose Adityanath, who alone can espouse the cause of Hindutva and make India a Hindu Rashtra," Jani said in the posters.

A video was also circulated on social media, allegedly by Jani, wherein he is heard heaping praise on Adityanath and criticising Modi.

Police said a case had been registered against Jani and a hunt had been launched to nab him.