Mehbooba Mufti Slams 'Bigots' For Turning Holi Into Source Of Fear For Minorities, Says 'Time To Wake Up'

Mehbooba Mufti expressed concern over bigots turning Holi into a source of fear for minorities with government support. She recalls Holi as a symbol of unity and laments its politicisation.

Mehbooba Mufti expressed her concern on Friday about how certain “bigots” have transformed the festivities of Holi into a "source of trepidation" for minorities with the "acquiescence of those in power.”

In a post on X, Mufti wrote that Holi for her has also symbolised India’s Ganga-Jamuna Tehzeeb. The political leader further mentioned that she used to fondly remember eagerly awaiting the festival and celebrating with her Hindu friends with immense joy and enthusiasm.

“Holi for me has always symbolized India’s Ganga-Jamuna Tehzeeb. I fondly remember eagerly awaiting the festival & celebrating it with my Hindu friends with immense joy & enthusiasm. However  some bigots have now converted this celebration into a source of fear for minorities with the approval of those in power. It’s time to wake up India. Wishing everyone a Happy Holi!,” she posted on X.

Earlier, she also said that pitting Hindus and Muslims against each other will have dangerous consequences for the country. She was reacting to the controversies over the Holi celebrations and Friday prayers coinciding on Friday during Ramzan.

The PDP president also alleged that the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has vitiated the atmosphere in the state.

Security Tightened Across Delhi

Delhi Police is on high alert, and the security has been beefed up in view of the Holi celebrations that coincide with the second Friday prayers of Ramzan, an official said. Over 25,000 security personnel have been deployed in Delhi to maintain law and order, the official said on Friday. Patrolling has been increased in all 15 police districts in the national capital, particularly in residential areas and places known for Holi gatherings. 

According to news agency PTI, no one will be allowed to breach law and order. Teams are keeping a strict vigil, and teams are on high alert, he said. Traffic police and city police have set up joint pickets, and special teams are deployed at major road intersections to check drunk driving and traffic violations, another official said.