A Sambhal police officer’s comments regarding Holi celebrations have sparked a strong reaction from opposition parties, who accused him of bias. On Thursday, Circle Officer (CO) Anuj Chaudhary, speaking after a peace committee meeting at the Kotwali police station, made a statement about those feeling uncomfortable with Holi colors. He suggested that people who feel uneasy should stay indoors during the festival. The officer pointed out that while Holi is a once-a-year event, Friday prayers happen 52 times annually. His remarks raised concern among opposition leaders, who questioned his impartiality.
“Holi is a festival that comes once a year, whereas Friday prayers take place 52 times in a year. If anyone feels uncomfortable with the colours of Holi, they should stay indoors on that day. Those who step out should have a broad mindset, as festivals are meant to be celebrated together,” PTI quoted the officer as saying.
Officer’s Remarks Sparks Controversy
This statement comes just days before Holi, which coincides with the Friday prayers during the ongoing month of Ramzan. The officer emphasised the importance of communal harmony and stressed that the peace committee meetings, which had been taking place for over a month, aimed to ensure smooth celebrations. He also urged both Hindu and Muslim communities to respect each other’s sentiments and avoid forcefully applying colour to anyone who does not wish to participate.
“Just as Muslims eagerly await Eid, Hindus look forward to Holi. People celebrate by applying colours, sharing sweets, and spreading joy. Similarly, on Eid, people prepare special dishes and embrace each other in celebration. The essence of both the festivals is togetherness and mutual respect,” he said.
Despite his intention to maintain peace, Chaudhary’s comments were criticised by opposition leaders. Samajwadi Party spokesperson Sharvendra Bikram Singh condemned the remarks, claiming the officer was acting in favor of the BJP. He argued, “The officers are imitating what they hear from the chief minister to stay in his good books. Action should be taken against those who make such statements and openly display their bias.”
Calls for Secural Governance
Similarly, Manish Hindvi, Vice Chairman of the Uttar Pradesh Congress Media Committee, warned that such comments could lead to unrest. “An officer, regardless of who they are, must be secular; only then can governance function properly in this country. Otherwise, it will lead to anarchy,” he said. Hindvi also expressed concern over the officer’s duty to ensure security for everyone, regardless of their religious background.
The controversy over the officer’s remarks comes after a violent incident in November 2024 in Sambhal, where clashes erupted during protests over a court-ordered survey of a Mughal-era mosque, leading to deaths and injuries. With tensions high, Chaudhary reiterated the administration’s commitment to maintaining peace, warning against any efforts to disturb communal harmony during this sensitive time.
