Bijnor, In a disquieting episode that marred the Holi celebrations in Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh, a Muslim family became the target of harassment by a group of young individuals. A video capturing the ordeal has sparked widespread outrage, highlighting the tension and discomfort such unwarranted actions can cause among communities during festive occasions.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the incident, caught in a 1.22-minute video, shows a Muslim man along with two women on a motorbike being forcefully stopped by a group celebrating Holi. Despite the family’s evident protests and discomfort, they were doused with water and smeared with colors by the group. The harassers not only physically assaulted the trio with colors but also attempted to justify their actions by invoking a supposed 70-year-old tradition.

The confrontation escalated as the group chanted religious slogans, including “Har Har Mahadev” and “Jai Shri Ram,” as the family hurriedly left the scene. This episode has raised concerns about the misuse of cultural and religious celebrations to intimidate and harass individuals from minority communities, casting a shadow over the spirit of unity and joy that Holi represents.

The incident has prompted discussions on social media and among civil society about the need for greater tolerance and respect for all individuals, regardless of their religious or cultural backgrounds, especially during celebrations that should embody the values of inclusivity and communal harmony.