Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], April 18: Sambhal Circle Officer (CO) Anuj Choudhary has been given a clean chit in the police inquiry regarding his controversial remarks made during Holi and Eid celebrations. The clearance came following an investigation led by the Superintendent of Police (Law and Order), who submitted a detailed report after recording statements from local officials, residents of Sambhal district, and members of the committee that had earlier honoured CO Choudhary.
The probe was initiated after former IPS officer Amitabh Thakur filed a complaint alleging that Choudhary’s statements during a peace committee meeting violated Police Conduct Rules. However, the investigation found no substantiating evidence against the officer.
During the March 6 peace committee meeting, CO Choudhary commented, “Holi comes once a year, Jumma comes 52 times. If you want to serve sevai, you must also eat gujiya.” He further advised members of the Muslim community to remain indoors during Holi if they were uncomfortable with colours, emphasizing the cultural significance of the festival.
Choudhary had told the media, “There are 52 Fridays in a year, but only one Holi. Just like Muslims eagerly wait for Eid, Hindus wait the whole year for Holi. If someone doesn’t want colours on them, they should stay indoors. Those who go out should be big-hearted enough not to mind being coloured.”
He also reiterated the importance of peaceful coexistence, stating that both Hindus and Muslims should celebrate their respective festivals harmoniously.