New Delhi, March 9: In the wake of controversy surrounding Sambhal Circle Officer (CO) Anuj Kumar Chaudhary’s remarks about Holi and Friday Namaaz, Congress MP Imraan Masood has called on the Supreme Court of India to intervene and take cognizance of the situation.
Masood expressed his concerns over the remarks made by an official holding a constitutional position, stating that such language was inappropriate and unprofessional. “The Supreme Court should take cognizance of this matter. An official holding a constitutional post is not supposed to use such words,” Masood said during an interaction with ANI on Sunday. “How can an official use such language?” he questioned.
The remarks in question were made by Sambhal CO Chaudhary during a peace committee meeting held on Thursday at the Sambhal Kotwali police station, which was convened in view of the upcoming Holi festival and its overlap with Friday prayers. Chaudhary stated, “We have requested the Muslim community that if they cannot accept getting coloured, they should stay indoors on the day of Holi. There are 52 Jummas (Fridays) in a year, but only one day for Holi.”
He went on to explain that the Hindu community eagerly awaits the Holi festival every year, much like Muslims look forward to Eid, and therefore, Muslims should accept the tradition of playing with colours during Holi. “If they (Muslims) don’t want colours to fall on them, they should stay at home. And if they want to go out of their house, they should be big-hearted enough not to object if colour falls on them,” Chaudhary added.
Despite the controversy, Chaudhary emphasized that both Hindu and Muslim communities would celebrate their respective festivals in their own way, stressing that Holi is a festival of harmony.
The remarks have drawn sharp reactions, with many questioning the propriety of the statement made by an official in a position of power. Masood’s call for Supreme Court intervention further highlights the growing concerns surrounding the issue.