Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Wednesday addressed the controversy surrounding Darbhanga Mayor Anjum Ara’s statement on Holi celebrations coinciding with Ramzan Friday prayers, emphasizing the need for communal harmony over political debate.
Tharoor stressed that both communities celebrating their festivals peacefully would set a positive example, rather than engaging in unnecessary political arguments.
“It will be a great example if one community celebrates Holi while the other observes Ramzan at the same time. What is the need to play politics over this?” Tharoor told the media.
The Controversy Over Holi Restrictions
The issue erupted after Darbhanga Mayor Anjum Ara proposed a two-hour ban on Holi celebrations from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm on March 14, citing the need to ensure uninterrupted Friday prayers during Ramzan.
However, following a major backlash, the Mayor expressed regret for her remarks and clarified that her intention was solely to maintain peace in the city.
“From early morning, people have been calling me a Bangladeshi and anti-national. My intention was to ensure peace in Darbhanga. But if anyone’s faith has been hurt, I express regret over my statement,” she said.
BJP Leaders Slam The Statement
Several BJP leaders condemned the Mayor’s remarks, accusing her of attempting to impose restrictions on a Hindu festival:
• Union Minister Satish Chandra Dubey stated:
“Jumma happens every week, but Holi is celebrated only once a year. If anyone has objections to Holi festivities, they should practice Jumma at home.”
• Union Minister BL Verma criticized the statement, asserting that Holi is a festival of unity and no one should try to impose restrictions on it.
“The festival of Holi has been going on for ages. Trying to restrict it is wrong. This is a festival to unite and resolve grievances. If someone tries to disrupt it, the law will take its course.”
• BJP MP Dr. Ashoka Kumar Yadav also opposed the Mayor’s remarks, calling them “inspired by communalism”.
“Holi comes once a year. It is a very big festival for Hindus. Such remarks do not befit a public representative like her. She should rather cooperate in the celebration of Holi.”
