Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday, citing an Allahabad HC order on conversion for marriage, raised the issue of ‘love jihad’, and said those who conceal their identity and will continue to do so, their “Ram naam satya” – a Hindu funeral chant, journey will begin, reported ANI.

Adityanath’s administration faced criticism for a spate of horrific crimes against women – including two separate instances of alleged rape against Dalit women in September. After the incidents, he announced a ‘Mission Satya’ to “make sure all sisters and daughters are protected”. The incidents triggered nationwide protests with Opposition attacking the BJP government for sheltering criminals.

“Allahabad High Court has said religious conversion isn’t necessary for marriage. The government will work to curb “love jihad”. We will make a law. I warn those who conceal their identity and play with our sisters’ respect,” Yogi Adityanath said at a rally in Jaunpur for by-polls to eight Assembly seats.

“If you don’t mend your ways, ‘Ram naam satya (the chant associated with Hindu funerals)’ journey will begin,” he said, adding that his government would “make sure sisters, daughters are protected. We will go to every extent to make this operation a success”.