Holi comes once a year, Friday Namaz 52 times: Sambhal Cop

Sambhal: A Sambhal police officer on Thursday said those uncomfortable with Holi colours should remain indoors as the festival comes once a year, sparking criticism from the opposition parties which demanded action against him saying his remarks show “bias” and are not befitting of an officer.

A peace committee meeting was held on Thursday at the Sambhal Kotwali police station in view of the upcoming Holi festival, which coincides with Friday prayers during the holy month of Ramzan.

“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,” Sambhal Circle Officer (CO) Anuj Chaudhary told reporters after the meeting.

He emphasised the need for communal harmony and strict vigilance to maintain law and order. He said that peace committee meetings had been going on for a month at various levels to ensure smooth



celebrations.

Chaudhary urged both communities to respect each other’s sentiments and also appealed to people to avoid forcibly applying colours on those who do 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.

“This applies to both communities. If someone does not want colour, they should not be forced,” he said on November 24 last year, violence erupted in Sambhal’s Kot Garvi locality during protests against a court-ordered survey of a Mughal-era Jama Masjid. The incident led to the death of four people, while several others sustained injuries.

On November 24 last year, violence erupted in Sambhal’s Kot Garvi locality during protests against a court-ordered survey of a Mughal-era Jama Masjid. The incident led to the death of four people, while several others sustained injuries.