“Holi comes once a year, Friday namaz takes place 52 times a year”: Uttar Pradesh policeman’s remark triggers row

A controversy has erupted in Uttar Pradesh after a police officer made a remark regarding the celebration of Holi and Jumma Namaz on the same date. While addressing a peace committee meeting in Sambhal, Circle Officer Anuj Chaudhary, said, “Holi comes once a year, Friday namaz takes place 52 times a year. If anyone feels uncomfortable with the colors of Holi, they should stay indoors on that day.”

This statement has sparked outrage, with opposition parties demanding action against the officer. They claim his remarks show a clear bias and are not fitting for a police officer. The situation is sensitive, especially since Holi coincides with Friday prayers during the holy month of Ramzan.

Chaudhary has also emphasized the need for communal harmony and strict vigilance to maintain law and order. He urged both communities to respect each other's sentiments and avoid forcibly applying colors on those who don't wish to participate. However, his initial remark has already ignited a firestorm of criticism.

Samajwadi Party spokesperson Sharvendra Bikram Singh condemned Chaudhary's remarks and said officers "should not act as BJP agents".

"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. This is condemnable, and officers should not act as BJP agents," he said.

Uttar Pradesh Congress Media Committee Vice Chairman Manish Hindvi said, "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."

"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,” he said.

"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," he added.