Mehbooba Mufti, the president of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), stated on Friday that certain "bigots" have turned Holi celebrations into a cause of fear for minorities, with the backing of those in power.
Her remarks
came a day after she expressed concerns about the harmful effects of pitting
Hindus against Muslims in the country.
Mehbooba's
comments were in response to the controversy surrounding the overlap of Holi
celebrations and Jumma prayers during the month of Ramzan.
On social
media, she wrote, "Holi has always represented India's Ganga-Jamuna
culture. I remember eagerly looking forward to the festival and celebrating it
with my Hindu friends, filled with joy and enthusiasm. But now, some bigots
have turned this celebration into a source of fear for minorities, with the
approval of those in power. It’s time for India to wake up. Wishing everyone a
Happy Holi!"
Earlier,
Mehbooba had spoken about the rising tension in the country and the growing
division between Hindus and Muslims.
This year,
Holi coincides with the second Friday of Ramzan, leading to heightened security
measures in several cities to avoid any potential incidents.