New Delhi: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday supported a Sambhal police officer's statement comparing the annual Holi festival to weekly Friday prayers, stating that the remark was factually correct. 

Adityanath said the official may have spoken as a "pehelwan" (wrestler), but what the Arjun awardee said was correct.

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Speaking at the India Today Conclave, Adityanath expressed gratitude towards religious leaders for agreeing to hold Friday namaz after 2 pm. He noted that those wishing to pray earlier could do so at home while those visiting mosques should be mindful of Holi celebrations. Holi falls on a Friday this year.

Sambhal Circle Officer Anuj Chaudhury had earlier remarked that Holi is a once-a-year festival, whereas Friday namaz take place 52 times annually. He advised individuals uncomfortable with Holi colours to remain indoors. The region had witnessed communal violence in November last year.

The Samajwadi Party criticised the police officer’s remark, alleging he was acting as a BJP agent.

Adityanath also dismissed accusations that the Uttar Pradesh government attempted to conceal deaths in the Maha Kumbh stampede. He asserted that the priority was assisting the injured and ensuring the safe dispersal of pilgrims from the Sangam area following the Mauni Amavasya holy dip.

The chief minister stated that once the administration had attended to the injured and managed the crowd, it provided media briefings. The tragic incident on January 29 had claimed 30 lives.

He also said the Maha Kumbh was a fine example of unity and a lesson for those who had questioned the congregation.

PTI