Taking a strong exception to the United States expressing concern over reports of "rising intolerance and violence" in the country, the Janata Dal (United) on Sunday said the U.S. should first rein in Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trump, who has been an exponent of intolerance, before 'lecturing' India.
"Who is the U.S. to lecture us on intolerance? It's an internal affair of India, let them worry about their nation. Bullets are being fired in nightclubs there. If they are so worried about intolerance then why don't they rein in Donald Trump, he is the most intolerant person. Leave the intolerance in India on our authorities," JD (U) spokesperson Ajay Alok told ANI.
Responding to questions on reports of increasing incidents of violence over beef in India, US State Department spokesperson John Kirby earlier said that U.S. stood in support of exercising of freedom of religion and expression and in confronting all forms of intolerance in India.
As per reports, he also asked India to do "everything in its power" to protect its citizens.
Earlier this week, two Muslim women in Madhya Pradesh's Mandsaur were thrashed by cow protection groups on the suspicion of carrying beef.
Kirby reportedly said the US looks forward to continuing to work with India to realise their tolerant and inclusive vision, which was in the interests of both India and the U.S.
