Terming M F Hussain's alleged depiction of Hindu deities in the nude as an "insult to the nation", the BJP Wednesday demanded the painter be immediately arrested and prosecuted for creating "disaffection" among communities.
"Being a good Muslim. Husain should refrain from repeatedly hurting the sentiments of Hindus," BJP General Secretary Vinay Katiyar told PTI over phone from Ayodhya.
Accusing the artist of insulting the Hindus and the nation by allegedly portraying deities and Bharat Mata in the nude, Katiyar demanded the painter be immediately arrested and prosecuted.
"He has created disaffection among religious communities and therefore should be put behind bar and prosecuted," the former Bajrang Dal chief said. "Otherwise, we will be forced to protest in our own way," he added. Hussain Tuesday apologised for his controversial depiction of Bharat Mata after angry protests by Hindu organisations.
The painting has been withdrawn from an auction that was to be held in Delhi Wednesday.