Synopsis
Darbhanga Mayor Anjum Ara has stirred controversy by suggesting a two-hour suspension of Holi celebrations on Friday from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. to honor Jumme ki Namaz. Her remarks have drawn political backlash, with various leaders criticizing her call for a pause in festivities.Key Takeaways
- Anjum Ara requests a two-hour pause in Holi for Jumme ki Namaz.
- Political leaders criticize her for the suggestion.
- Historical coexistence of Holi and Ramzan.
- Local administration has not issued directives.
- Ara expresses regret amid backlash.
Patna, March 12 (NationPress) Darbhanga Mayor Anjum Ara has ignited controversy by proposing a two-hour halt in Holi festivities on Friday from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., emphasizing the need to respect Jumme ki Namaz (Friday prayers).
"Holi celebrations can be adjusted, but the timing for Friday prayers is fixed," Ara remarked, calling for a pause in Holi activities near mosques and prayer sites.
She highlighted that Holi and Ramzan have historically coexisted in harmony.
Ara made her comments during a peace committee meeting organized by the Darbhanga district administration on Tuesday evening in anticipation of Holi and Friday prayers. Following the meeting, she reiterated her position publicly, provoking a political backlash.
Janata Dal-United (JDU) MLC Neeraj Kumar vehemently criticized Ara, asserting that public officials should communicate suggestions to the proper authorities rather than through the media. "Maintaining law and order is the responsibility of civil and police administrations, not politicians making media statements. Anyone who disrupts peace will face repercussions," Kumar stated.
Darbhanga MP Gopal Jee Thakur denounced Ara's comments, warning, "Do not incite the sentiments of Sanatanis while occupying a constitutional role. Mithila is renowned for its peace and harmony, and Holi is celebrated here with brotherhood."
Meanwhile, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MLA Mohammad Anzar Naimi and JDU Minister Shrawan Kumar both distanced themselves from Ara’s statements. "If she has made any provocative remarks, they should be curtailed," Naimi stated.
Kumar added, "Holi and Ramzan have peacefully coincided in the past, making such statements unnecessary."
The local administration has yet to issue any formal directive regarding the situation.
In light of the backlash, Anjum Ara expressed regret over her comments. "Since this morning, I have been labeled a Bangladeshi and a traitor. I urge the media to conduct a thorough investigation into my actions, and if any wrongdoing is uncovered, I welcome strict action," she stated.
She accused the BJP of targeting her, asserting, "My sole intention was to ensure that all festivals are celebrated peacefully in Darbhanga."
