Lucknow, Jan. 24 -- Former Uttar Pradesh chief minister and BSP supremo Mayawati on Saturday called for keeping religion and politics separate, warning that their growing overlap is leading to disputes, tensions, and social unrest.

Her remarks came amid the ongoing controversy surrounding the Magh Mela in Prayagraj and allegations that a Shankaracharya was prevented from taking a ritual dip at the Sangam.

In a post on X on the occasion of Uttar Pradesh Diwas, Mayawati said that in recent years, interference by political figures in religious festivals, holidays, worship rituals, and bathing ceremonies has increased not only in Uttar Pradesh but across the country.

She said this trend is giving rise to new conflicts and concerns among th...