Indian federal gov't urges states to maintain order during upcoming Hindu festival in wake of religious violence

NEW DELHI, April 5 (Xinhua) -- India's federal government Wednesday said it has issued an advisory to all states, urging them to maintain law and order during the upcoming Hindu festival Hanuman Jayanti.

"The ministry of home affairs (MHA) has issued an advisory to all states in preparation for Hanuman Jayanti. The governments are encouraged to ensure the maintenance of law and order, peaceful observance of the festival," reads a statement from the office of federal home minister Amit Shah.

Last week religious violence was reported in Bihar, West Bengal, Gujarat, Delhi, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh during the Ram Navami festivities.

The festival is scheduled to be celebrated on Thursday.