BIG: BJP differs with ally Shiv Sena over Burqa ban demand, highlights that Modi government has stopped terrorists from infiltrating

The BJP has issued its first response to its ally Shiv Sena's demand for a pan-India ban on Burqas on the grounds of national security. Rajya Sabha MP and BJP spokesperson GVL Narasimha Rao has expressed his party's opposition to such action.

'Sri Lanka has taken this step in response to the tragedy they have gone through. Under the Modi government, we have stopped terrorism from coming inside the Indian territory. In any state in the interior or mainland, whether it be Maharashtra or anywhere else, there hasn't been any terror attack. Hence, I don't think there is a need to put any ban at this point of time. Each country takes decisions to safeguard its own interests. When Modi ji is there is no need to fear,' GVL Rao said while speaking to mediapersons.

Earlier, in an editorial in its mouthpiece Saamna, the Shiv Sena has asked PM Modi that if Sri Lanka, which the Sena has referred to as the country of Raavan, can ban the Burqa, then why can't India, which is the country of Lord Ram, implement the same?

"Sri Lankan President Maithripala has taken a courageous decision by banning Burqa or mask which covers face for security reasons," the article states, adding, "We are asking this question because PM Modi is going to Ayodhya today. We are raising this demand in the national interest." 

PM Narendra Modi will make his first visit to Uttar Pradesh's Ayodhya in many years on Wednesday, following which he will address a rally as well. 

In the aftermath of eight string of blasts that shook Sri Lanka's Colombo, the country called for a complete ban all facial coverings. 

"President Maithripala Sirisena took this decision to further support the ongoing security and help the armed forces to easily identify the identity of any wanted perpetrators," a press note from the Sri Lankan President's office stated.

WATCH: Ramdas Athawale Opposes Shiv Sena's Demand To Ban Burqa In India, Says 'everyone Who Wears Burqa Is Not Involved In Terror Activities'

Author-in-Exile Taslima Nasreen has backed the demand for a Burqa ban, though not for reasons relating to countering terror: