LUCKNOW, March 12 -- UP Police has intensified vigilance and tightened security measures while sounding an alert for Holi celebrations, which are coinciding this time with the Friday prayers, amid controversial remarks from politicians and even government officials.

On Monday, BJP leader and minister Raghuraj Singh stoked a row when he asked Muslim men to cover themselves with tarpaulin sheets when they go to mosques to offer Friday's namaz on Holi. This remark came days after a senior police officer in Sambhal commented that those who felt uncomfortable with Holi colours should stay indoors as the festival came only once a year, whereas Juma namaz (Friday prayers) took place 52 times in a year.

In the wake of such controversies, direct...