VIDEO: Muzaffarnagar man apologises for comments on Sambhal cop's Holi-Ramzan remark

A resident of Muzaffarnagar who had commented on Sambhal deputy superintendent of Police, Anuj Chaudhary’s post was arrested and an apology video of him recorded.

Arbaz of Kamalpur village in the Shahpur Nagar panchayat of Muzaffarnagar had posted on social media that Bakrid came around just once a year, hence those who had a problem with blood should not step out on the day.

This is a direct response to Chaudhary’s comment, six days ago, that as Holi came around just once a year, all those who had a problem with colours should not step out. 

This time Holi falls on Friday during the month of Ramzan, and Chaudhary had said that those Muslims who feared colour should stay indoors to offer prayers. He had added that jummah (Friday) came 52 times in a year.

In his video apology, recorded from behind bars, Arbaz said that he was seeking forgiveness for the comments he had made on Chaudhary who is posted as a Circle Officer.

Arbaz goes on to say in the 22-second video that such a mistake will not be repeated by him and that he respects the police department. A person can be heard prompting Arbaz in the background as he goes on to say not only will he refrain from making such comments but that he would also make people understand the same.

Chaudhary’s comment has received backing from the state’s chief minister, Yogi Adityanath.

In Lucknow, senior cleric, Maulana Wasif Hasan told The Week that it was best that any kind of face-off be avoided, and it was advisable to change the time for Friday prayers. “This is a very important festival for our Hindu brethren and generally colours are played till 2pm so it is best to shift prayer timings”.

He has said that every namaz has its timing and importance, yet the Sharia allows for some changes as per circumstances. He also said that even if some colour were to be splayed on a Muslim’s clothes, this in no way interfered with prayers. He has called for patience and understanding on the occasion.