BJP Leaders' Remarks on Holi and Friday Prayers Draw Sharp Criticism

Controversial statements by BJP leaders in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar about Muslims staying indoors during Holi have sparked political backlash and calls for communal harmony.

BJP MLA Haribhushan Thakur Bachaul in Bihar suggested Muslims stay indoors on Holi, citing the festival's overlap with Friday prayers during Ramzan.
The remarks were criticized by RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, who accused the BJP of trying to incite communal tensions for political gains.
In Uttar Pradesh, BJP leader Raghuraj Singh suggested Muslim men use tarpaulins to avoid Holi colors while attending prayers, further fueling controversy.
Tejashwi Yadav demanded an apology from the Bihar MLA and called out Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for his silence on the issue.
Authorities in both states have announced measures to ensure communal harmony during Holi, with some mosques adjusting Friday prayer timings.