Patna: Bihar BJP MLA Haribhushan Thakur from Bisfi has stirred controversy by urging Muslims to stay indoors during Holi, which coincides with Friday in Ramadan this year.
“In a year, there are 52 Fridays. One Friday is on the same day as Holi. I am appealing to Muslims to let Hindus celebrate Holi and not take offense if colors are thrown at them. If they have a problem with this, they should rather stay at home,” Thakur stated.
Further intensifying the controversy, he accused Muslims of double standards, saying, “They are happy to sell colors, but if colors are thrown at them, they fear dozakh (hell).”
His remarks faced strong opposition from political leaders. RJD MLA and former minister Israil Mansuri criticized Thakur, stating, “Why is the BJP MLA concerned about Muslims on Holi? They use communal hatred for political gains while pretending to protect Sanatan Dharma.”, reported the Hindustan Times.
Meanwhile, State Minority Affairs Minister and JD(U) leader Zama Khan assured that authorities would ensure communal harmony during the festival.
