Yogi Adityanath Supports Sambhal Police Officer’s 'Holi Vs Friday Namaz' Remarks

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has supported a police officer’s statement suggesting that those uncomfortable with Holi colours should remain indoors.

“Holi comes once a year, but Friday prayers have to be read every week. It is not necessary that a person should go to the mosque. If someone has to go then they should not have an issue with colours,” he said, India Today reported.

Adityanath made these remarks at an India Today conclave while responding to the controversy over Sambhal Circle Officer Anuj Chaudhary’s statement.

Speaking to reporters after a peace committee meeting at Sambhal Kotwali police station on Thursday, Chaudhary advised those who did not wish to participate in Holi should remain indoors.

“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,” he said.

Emphasizing the need for communal harmony, he stressed that law and order would be strictly upheld.

He added that peace committee meetings had been ongoing for a month to ensure the festival was observed smoothly.

Chaudhary urged people to respect each other’s sentiments and said no one should be forced 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.

“This applies to both communities. If someone does not want colour, they should not be forced," he added.

Chaudhary cautioned that strict action would be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt communal harmony.

Opposition parties strongly condemned Chaudhary’s statement.

Samajwadi Party spokesperson Sharvendra Bikram Singh alleged that officers were echoing the Chief Minister’s views to gain his favour.

"Action should be taken against those who make such statements and openly display their bias. This is condemnable, and officers should not act as BJP agents," the SP spokesperson added.

UP Congress leader Manish Hindvi argued that officials must uphold secularism for effective governance. He warned that failure to do so could result in anarchy.

“If people from a particular religion have expressed discomfort with playing with colours, the officer’s duty is to ensure that there is no atmosphere of fear or insecurity. There should be an arrangement where both Holi is celebrated and namaz is offered peacefully. Saying that Holi comes once a year while Friday prayers happen 52 times and that those who dislike colours should stay indoors is a political statement," Hindvi added.

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