Darbhanga Mayor Anjum Ara has stirred a political debate by requesting a two-hour pause in Holi celebrations on Friday, March 14, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., to ensure respect for Jumme ki Namaz (Friday prayers).
“Holi festivities can be adjusted, but the timing of Friday prayers cannot be changed,” Ara stated, urging a break near mosques and prayer sites. She emphasized that Holi and Ramadan have coexisted peacefully in the past.
Her remarks, made during a peace committee meeting organized by the Darbhanga district administration, triggered a sharp response. JDU MLC Neeraj Kumar criticized her, asserting that law and order is the administration’s responsibility, not politicians making media statements.
Darbhanga MP Gopal Jee Thakur condemned Ara’s comments, warning, “Do not provoke Sanatanis while holding a constitutional post.” However, RJD MLA Mohammad Anzar Naimi and JDU Minister Shrawan Kumar distanced themselves from Ara’s statement, calling it unnecessary.
Following political backlash, Anjum Ara expressed regret, revealing she was being labeled a “Bangladeshi” and “traitor”. She accused the BJP of targeting her, maintaining that her intention was to ensure peaceful coexistence during festivals.
The local administration has not issued any official directive regarding her request.
