Bihar BJP MLA Haribhushan Thakur Bachaul has stirred controversy with his remarks urging Muslims to remain indoors during Holi, which coincides with Friday prayers this year. Bachaul argued that Muslims should avoid stepping out to prevent confrontations, suggesting they prioritize Holi, which occurs annually, over Jumma prayers held 52 times a year. He added that Muslims should not object to being smeared with colors if they venture outside.

The statement has drawn sharp criticism from RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav, who accused Bachaul of attempting to incite communal tensions. Yadav questioned whether the state belonged to the MLA's father and challenged Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to reprimand Bachaul and demand an apology in the Assembly. He further criticized Kumar for prioritizing political alliances over governance, accusing him of aligning with BJP's divisive agenda.