Lucknow: The issue of a passport official in Lucknow who insulted an interfaith couple took a new turn when some prominent personalities along with saffron political and social parties tried to give the matter a communal colour. RSS spokesman demanded justice to the passport officer who was made ‘villain’, while Shiv Sena decided to honour the official.

Demanding revocation of his suspension, Shiv Sena officer warned to begin movement in his favour. Social media has also started a war, pro and against him.

The ministry of external affairs has also sought a report from the Lucknow office about the unsavoury episode from yesterday that involved the official, Vikas Mishra, asking a Muslim to convert to Hinduism if he wanted his passport renewed. A show cause notice has also been issued to Misra.

The incident came to light when Lucknow woman Tanvi Seth tweeted to external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj about the mistreatment she and her husband Anas Siddiqui faced from the official, Mishra, at the Passport Sewa Kendra at Lucknow’s Ratan Square.