The Home Ministry has decided to provide Z category security to BJP leader and Muzaffarnagar riots accused Sangeet Som. The move evoked a volley of criticism from political parties even as the BJP defended it. Congress leader Manish Tewari said, it is ironical that riot victims are homeless and the accused is being provided security. Talking to reporters in New Delhi, he said it is a mockery of democracy that a person who allegedly instigated groups clashes is given protection whereas victims are running pillar to post for justice.

NCP leader Tariq Anwar said, only BJP can take such a decision to extend protection to a riot accused. However, BJP spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain said it is responsibility of the government to provide security to a person under threat.

Som was arrested for his alleged role in uploading of a fake video that is said to have incited communal tension in Muzaffarnagar ? last year.
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Samajwadi Party spokesperson and State Minister Rajendra Choudhury ?said that such act by the Centre proved that they are giving patronage to the criminals, who was responsible for the riots.?