Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath came out in support of Sambhal CO Anuj Chaudhary, who stirred controversy with his remark asking Muslims not to stay out on Holi if they feel their religion will be corrupted by colours.
Speaking at an event organised by a private news channel, the UP CM said, "On the occasion of Holi, I believe that everyone's sentiments should be respected. The Friday prayers (Jumu'ah) take place every Friday. Holi is celebrated once a year, and people have been lovingly made to understand this. I thank those who had already issued statements saying, 'Let Holi take place first.' Holi is on March 14. Let people play Holi until 2 PM, and then they can offer Jumu'ah prayers afterward."
"Many Muslim religious leaders have also appealed to people, saying that we should accept this because Holi comes once a year, while Jumu'ah prayers happen every week. The prayers can also be postponed; it is not mandatory that they must be performed at a specific time. However, if someone insists on offering prayers, they can do so at home. It is not necessary to go to the mosque. If someone still wishes to go, then they should not avoid colours. If they wish to avoid colours, it would be better to stay at home," he added.
The UP CM noted that the police officer (Sambhal CO) was a wrestler. "He has also been an Arjuna Awardee and a former Olympian. Since he is a wrestler, he speaks like one. Some people might find it a bit unpleasant, but it is the truth, and that truth should be accepted," Yogi Adityanath said.
CO Anuj Chaudhary's controversial remark drew sharp reactions from opposition leaders. A Congress party leader has lodged a complaint against him. SP leader Ram Gopal Yadav lashed out at the cop, stating that if the government changes in UP, such people will be behind bars.
In a statement, Chaudhary said, "My straightforward message is that Jumma comes 52 times a year, but Holi comes only once a year. If Muslim community members feel their religion is corrupted by Holi colours, they should not leave home that day. If they do go out, they should have a big enough heart to accept that everyone is equal."
