’Holi Ke Rang Se Dharam Bhrasht Hoga To...’ Fame Anuj Chaudhary Transferred From Sambhal

Five months after the communal violence that rocked Sambhal during Holi, Circle Officer (CO) Anuj Chaudhary—infamously known for his controversial “Holi ek, Jumma 52” remark—has been transferred. He has now been posted to Chandousi, and the responsibility of Sambhal has been handed over to IPS officer Alok Bhati. 

Anuj Chaudhary Transferred From Sambhal

Anuj Chaudhary came under heavy criticism earlier this year for his statement, “Holi ek din ki होती है, लेकिन Jumma तो 52 होते हैं,” made while addressing a crowd amid tensions over Holi processions. The remark was widely shared on social media and triggered political and public backlash for its perceived communal undertones.

His transfer comes amid a larger administrative shuffle following review meetings on law and order

His transfer comes amid a larger administrative shuffle following review meetings on law and order across Uttar Pradesh, particularly in sensitive districts that witnessed unrest during religious festivals. Though officials claim the move is routine, the timing has sparked discussions about delayed accountability and the handling of communal matters.

IPS officer Alok Bhati, considered a officer with experience in handling communal tension, has now taken over the sensitive district. His posting is being seen as a step towards restoring balance and reinforcing communal harmony in the region. 

Adding to the controversy, Amitabh Thakur, National President of the Azad Adhikar Sena, had accused CO Anuj Chaudhary of repeatedly violating service and uniform conduct rules, making unauthorised public statements, deliberately giving communal color to policing actions, creating tension through conduct outside the scope of official duties, and instilling a sense of insecurity among a particular community.

In response to these allegations, ASP Sambhal, Shri Shreeesh Chandra, conducted an inquiry and reported that the festivals of Alvida Jumma, Holi, and Eid were conducted peacefully in the region. Furthermore, no substantial evidence was found to support the other claims, leading to the closure of the complaint.