The diplomatic outrage over the remarks on Prophet Muhammad by former BJP leaders Nupur Sharma and Naveen Kumar Jindal continued even as the government sought to defuse the anger in various countries, asserting that it respects all religions. The BJP has suspended Ms Sharma and expelled Mr Jindal over the controversial comments. Back home too, opposition leaders are calling for stricter action against the duo. Amid sharp reactions over the remarks, a spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said that "we strongly encourage respect and tolerance for all religions," the news agency PTI reported.