As India celebrates Holi, the festival of colours marking the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil, this year’s festivities coincide with Jumma (Friday prayers) during Ramzan, raising concerns about communal harmony. Against this backdrop, two prominent Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, MP Jagdambika Pal and Haryana Cabinet Minister Anil Vij, have expressed contrasting views, while authorities across India have stepped up security to ensure peace.
Jagdambika Pal’s Take
BJP MP Jagdambika Pal, speaking in Delhi, emphasised peaceful coexistence, stating, "People will celebrate Holi as well as Jumma, and it will happen while maintaining communal harmony… Holi is a festival of happiness, of colours, of sweetness." He added, "On the occasion of Holi, people hug each other and exchange greetings, and tomorrow, people across the country will celebrate this festival with the same spirit." Anil Vij’s Take
In contrast, Anil Vij, a senior Haryana BJP leader and Labour Minister in the Haryana government, urged non-Hindus to tolerate “colour splashes” while Hindus celebrate Holi. He said, "If you live in Hindustan, a land of Hindus, and they are celebrating Holi, you should have the patience to tolerate a bit of colour if it splashes on you. Just like when it rains—if you don't want to get wet, it's best to stay indoors. I don't play Holi, so I choose to stay at home."
Holi & Jumma: The Concerns
The coincidence of Holi and Jumma has prompted heightened security measures nationwide. In Indore, Madhya Pradesh, police have intensified patrols and deployed state armed forces, home guards, and District Security Committee members in sensitive areas. Meanwhile, in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, a peace committee meeting led by Circle Officer Anuj Chaudhary was held to prevent tensions between Hindu and Muslim communities. These efforts follow concerns raised by past incidents, prompting authorities to ensure public safety during this sensitive period.
