Hyderabad authorities have announced restrictions on Holi celebrations, citing concerns over public safety and inconvenience. The new rules ban the movement of vehicles in groups and prohibit throwing colors on people without their consent.
These restrictions have sparked criticism, especially from BJP MLA Raja Singh. He strongly opposed the decision, calling it a “Tughlaq farman” (an unreasonable order).
According to the police order, two-wheelers and other vehicles cannot travel in groups if they disturb public order or create risks. Additionally, people are not allowed to throw colors, apply them on unwilling individuals, or splash colored water on properties and vehicles in public areas. The restrictions will be in place from 6 PM on March 13 until 6 AM on March 15.
Authorities have also ordered the temporary closure of liquor outlets, including wine shops, toddy shops, and bars, from 6 AM to 6 PM on March 14. However, registered clubs and star hotels are exempt from this rule.
Raja Singh accused the Congress-led state government of influencing the police decision. He questioned why similar restrictions were not imposed during Ramzan, when, according to him, groups move on motorcycles at night. He also criticized Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, calling him the “ninth Nizam,” and alleged that the government was favoring a particular community while being unfair to Hindus.
Singh argued that instead of restricting Hindu celebrations, the administration could have requested cooperation from the Muslim community for a day. He urged the chief minister to reconsider the decision, saying it disproportionately affects Hindus.
