Lucknow, March 15 (NationPress) A question included in the Uttar Pradesh Police Sub-Inspector (SI) recruitment test has sparked a significant controversy, with both the Congress party and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) denouncing it as an 'effort to fragment society'.

The question posed was, "Avsar ke anusaar badal jaane wala (Who changes according to the situation)?" and one of the options given was the term "Pandit", which triggered widespread objections.

Uttar Pradesh Minister Pratibha Shukla asserted that the individual who created the specific question clearly misunderstands the true essence of the term "Pandit".

Shukla stated to IANS, "A person who possesses profound knowledge of the universe, advocates for societal improvement, is well-versed in the 'Vedas', and speaks out against injustice is referred to as a 'Pandit'. Thus, employing this term in such a context is inappropriate."

In response to the uproar, Congress Spokesperson Surendra Rajput accused the authorities of tarnishing the image of 'Pandits'.

He remarked, "From Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati to 'Ghooskhor Pandit', and now the term 'Pandit' is being misused in a question for opportunistic purposes. What is happening in Uttar Pradesh?"

Rajput speculated whether there might be a conspiracy behind this incident.

"This seems to be a severe offense. Who is behind it? Is a faction of the BJP involved in this? The truth needs to be unveiled. The public will demand strict accountability from those who attempt to divide society based on caste and religion for power," he added.

Meanwhile, BJP legislators in Uttar Pradesh have called for a comprehensive investigation and punishment for those responsible.

BJP MLA Shalabh Mani Tripathi informed IANS, "This is truly unfortunate. Upon learning of it, I promptly contacted the Chief Minister's office to bring this matter to their attention. An investigation is underway. The Uttar Pradesh Police Recruitment and Promotion Board has also provided us with information regarding its inquiry."

He further stated, "Whoever is responsible for this, I believe, acted with intent. Recently, we have observed deliberate actions aimed at dividing society. I am confident that the perpetrators will face justice."

Speaking to IANS, BJP MLA Rakesh Goswami expressed, "I became aware of the incident through social media. This stems from a flawed mindset. Individuals with such perspectives cannot serve the interests of society. I have written to the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister (Yogi Adityanath) requesting an inquiry and action against those at fault. I condemn such incidents in our society."

"The matter is under investigation, and we will ascertain whether it is a conspiracy or a result of poor judgment," he concluded.