With 'Sewaiyan And Gujiya' Remark, UP Police Officer Anuj Choudhary Sparks Row Yet Again Ahead Of Eid
“Brotherhood diminishes when one side is eating sweets like gujiya or sewaiyan and the other is not. If you want to offer sewaiyan for Eid, you should also accept our gujiya,” Anuj Choudhary said.
Uttar Pradesh’s firebrand police officer, Anuj Choudhary, is once again at the centre of controversy with his latest remark – “If you want to distribute sewaiyan, you must also eat gujiya." The statement, made during a peace committee meeting in Sambhal, has sparked a fresh debate on cultural inclusivity and communal balance. Besides, the district administration has implemented extensive security arrangements for Alvida Juma and Eid celebrations, imposing restrictions on offering of prayers on the streets and on the rooftops.
On Wednesday, a peace committee meeting was held at Sadar Kotwali, Sambhal under the leadership of Additional SP Shrish Chandra, SDM Dr Vandana Mishra, and Circle Officer Anuj Choudhary. Choudhary’s “sewaiyan and gujiya" remark came during this meeting as he emphasised the need for mutual participation in cultural traditions. “Brotherhood diminishes when one side is eating sweets like gujiya or sewaiyan and the other is not. If you want to offer sewaiyan for Eid, you should also accept our gujiya," he said.
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This remark has triggered widespread debate, with opposition parties accusing him of attempting to polarise communities ahead of elections. Samajwadi Party leader Ram Gopal Yadav criticised the statement, calling it “an effort to sow discord before the polls." Congress leaders also condemned the remark, urging officials to focus on law enforcement rather than cultural impositions.
Stringent Security Measures for Alvida Juma and Eid
In light of the upcoming celebrations, the district administration has implemented strict security measures. Officials appealed to all communities to celebrate the upcoming festivals with peace and harmony. ASP Shrish Chandra stated, “A peace committee meeting was held in Kotwali Sambhal with people from all religions and communities. It was clearly communicated and ensured that prayers will be conducted inside mosques and Eidgah only, and not on the streets. Issues related to electricity and water were also addressed and will be resolved in time. Compliance with the rules was also emphasised. The zonal sector arrangement remains in place as before, and an adequate police force will be deployed. It will be ensured that prayers are not conducted on rooftops."
Besides, authorities have also enforced strict traffic diversions to manage crowd movement and prevent congestion near religious sites. A heavy police presence, including additional forces, has been deployed to sensitive areas, with CCTV cameras installed for continuous monitoring. Zonal and sector-wise security arrangements remain in effect, ensuring rapid response in case of disturbances.
SDM Dr Vandana Mishra said that no permissions for loudspeakers had been granted, and any concerns raised were directed to the appropriate departments for resolution.
Notably, Alvida Juma prayers will be held on March 28, while Navratri will begin on March 30, and Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on March 31. Some individuals have requested the use of loudspeakers during these events, but authorities have reiterated that government regulations regarding sound amplification must be followed.
Past Controversies Surrounding Anuj Choudhary
Choudhary’s latest remark follows a previous controversy during Holi celebrations on March 14, which coincided with a Friday in Ramadan. At that time, he advised Muslim community members concerned about being coloured during Holi festivities to remain indoors until the celebrations ended. His statement, “The festival of colours comes only once a year, while Friday prayers happen 52 times a year. If someone finds Holi colours to be an issue while going for prayers, it is better for them to stay inside until the celebrations end", drew sharp criticism from opposition parties and religious organisations.
Despite the backlash, UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath defended Choudhary, stating that his intent was to prevent communal tensions and that his direct communication style stemmed from his background as a former wrestler.
Choudhary has also gained notoriety for his tough policing style, particularly in sensitive areas like Sambhal. During violent clashes over the Jama Masjid survey, he sustained injuries when rioters opened fire, reinforcing his firm stance on law and order.
As the region prepares for upcoming festivities, the controversy surrounding Choudhary’s remarks continues to dominate political and social discussions.
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