Sambhal CO Anuj Chaudhary gets clean chit in Holi-Jumma remark probe

NEW DELHI: Uttar Pradesh's Sambhal circle officer Anuj Choudhary has been cleared of allegations regarding his controversial remarks during Holi and Eid celebrations following a police investigation on Friday.
The clean chit was based on an inquiry report submitted by the Superintendent of Police (Law and Order), which included statements from officials, residents, and committee members who had honored Choudhary.
The investigation was initiated after a complaint was filed by Amitabh Thakur, alleging violation of Police Conduct Rules over Choudhary's comments at a peace committee meeting.
During the meeting, Choudhary had stated: "Holi comes once a year, Jumma comes 52 times. If you want to serve sevai, you must also eat gujiya."
The probe found no evidence supporting the allegations made in the complaint.
On March 6, Choudhary had addressed the media regarding celebrations during the Hindu festival of Holi. He suggested that members of the Muslim community who were uncomfortable with colors should remain indoors.
"We have requested that the Muslim community, if they cannot accept being coloured, then they should not come to the place where Holi is being celebrated. There are 52 'Jumma' (Fridays) in a year, but only one day for Holi. Hindus wait for Holi the whole year, just like Muslims wait for Eid," Choudhary told the media.
He further elaborated on his stance regarding the festival celebrations.
"We have given a direct message that when people play Holi, and if they (Muslims) don't want colours to fall on them, then they should stay at home. And if they want to go out of their house, then they should be big-hearted enough not to object if colour falls on them," Choudhary added.
The Circle Officer concluded by stating that both Hindu and Muslim communities would celebrate their respective festivals in their own way.
The investigation process included recording statements from various stakeholders in Sambhal district, including officials and local residents.