A senior police officer in Uttar Pradesh has come under fire for remarks that opposition leaders call “biased” and “inappropriate.” Anuj Kumar Chaudhary, the Sambhal Circle Officer, suggested that Muslims who object to being colored during Holi should stay indoors.
The controversy erupted following a Peace Committee Meeting held ahead of Holi, which coincides with Jumua (Friday prayers) this year. Addressing the gathering, Chaudhary said, “There are 52 Fridays in a year, but only one Holi. Hindus wait all year for Holi, just like Muslims wait for Eid.”
He further said that if Muslims believe Holi colors could affect their faith, they should remain inside. “And if they step out, they should be broad-minded enough to accept it if colors fall on them. People celebrating may not always be conscious, especially after drinking bhang (a cannabis-infused drink),” he added.
According to Chaudhary, his comments intended to promote communal harmony, however, many believed they downplayed the importance of Friday prayers for Muslims, especially during the sacred month of Ramadan.
Samajwadi Party spokesperson Sharvendra Bikram Singh condemned his remarks, accusing the officer of trying to align with the ruling BJP. “He is just echoing what the chief minister says to stay in his good books,” Singh alleged. He demanded strict action against the officer for his “clear bias.”
Congress leader Manish Hindvi also criticized Chaudhary’s remarks. “An officer must be secular. Otherwise, governance collapses into anarchy,” he said.
Hindvi adds that law enforcement should ensure a safe atmosphere for all. “If people from a particular faith express discomfort with playing Holi, the officer’s job is to make sure no one feels unsafe,” he asserted.
Calling the remarks politically motivated, Hindvi pointed out, “If an officer starts making statements like these today, tomorrow they may say they’ll protect only Hindus, not Muslims. That is dangerous.”
As outrage mounts, opposition leaders demand action against Chaudhary, arguing that his remarks violate the professional code of conduct. Meanwhile, the UP police department has yet to respond to the controversy.
