Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], March 15 (ANI): AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi strongly condemned calls advising Muslims to remain indoors or cover themselves during Holi, emphasizing that the community would not succumb to fear. Addressing a gathering at Chowk-e-Masjid in Hyderabad, Telangana, on Friday, Owaisi stated, “We will not run, we are not cowards”, highlighting concerns over religious freedom in India.
His remarks came in response to statements made by certain officials suggesting that Muslims who did not wish to be colored during Holi should stay indoors. In Uttar Pradesh’s Sambhal, Circle Officers Anuj Chaudhary had on March 6 recommended that those uncomfortable with Holi celebrations should remain inside – a comment later endorsed by UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
Additionally, several mosques in Uttar Pradesh were covered with tarpaulins on local administrative orders to prevent any disturbance during the festivities. The directive sparked widespread criticism, with Owaisi questioning the authority of officials to dictate religious practices. “Some say if you’re so scared, you should not offer namaz and stay indoors. They say just like we have covered our mosques, we must cover ourselves also, or else stay indoors. Those who migrated to Pakistan were cowards. We will not run, we are not cowards,” Owaisi declared.
This year, Holi coincided with the second Jumma namaz (Friday prayers) of Ramazan on March 14, prompting heightened security measures related to religious freedom in India. Authorities conducted flag marches and set up checkpoints to maintain peace. In Sambhal, law enforcement ensured that Holi celebrations and religious prayers proceeded smoothly under tight security.
Sambhal Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Vandana Mishra lauded the communal cooperation, stating that the peaceful celebrations conveyed a strong message of harmony. District Magistrate Rajendra Pensia echoed her sentiments, affirming that both communities participated in Holi celebrations with mutual respect.
Meanwhile, Circle Officer Anuj Chaudhary led police and paramilitary forced in flag marches across the district, alongside foot patrols and drone surveillance to monitor the situation. “We are conducting foot-paroling and drine surveillance to ensure law and order.” Chaudhary told ANI.
Despite the assurance of security and peaceful coexistence, concerns remain over the increasing restrictions and advisories disproportionately targeting the Muslim community. Owaisi’s statements highlight the growing anxiety over religious freedoms and the broader implications of such directives in India’s pluralistic society.