Daijiworld Media Network - Gorakhpur

Gorakhpur, Mar 14: Uttar Pradesh cabinet minister and Nirbal Indian Shoshit Hamara Aam Dal (NISHAD) party president Sanjay Nishad triggered a controversy with his statement that those who have a problem with Holi colours should leave the country.

Speaking at a Holi Milan event in Gorakhpur, the minister of Fisheries said, “People embrace each other during Friday prayers, and they do the same during Holi. These festivals symbolize unity, but some politicians don’t want this harmony. A particular group is being misled, and if they have issues with colours, they shouldn’t just stay indoors but leave the country.”

His remarks sparked sharp reactions, with Muslim scholars and opposition leaders slamming him for spreading division. Maulana Shahabuddin Rizvi, National President of the All India Muslim Jamaat, condemned the statement, calling it irresponsible and against the minister’s oath. “Sanjay Nishad holds a responsible position, and his words must be strongly criticized. No minister has the right to incite hatred or create division. He swore to work without discrimination, not to dictate who should stay or leave,” Rizvi stated.

Opposition leaders also hit out at the ruling NDA government, accusing it of indulging in divisive politics. Congress leader Shahnawaz Alam alleged that NDA leaders were competing to spread hatred. “Our country has always celebrated Holi and Eid together in harmony. Uttar Pradesh, the land of Awadh, is where Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh, wrote the most famous Holi song,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, with Holi celebrations underway, Uttar Pradesh Police remain on high alert to ensure peace and communal harmony.