Muharram processions suspended in Kashmir

Precious Kashmir News
Srinagar, Aug 23: Anjuman Shari Shia has decided to suspend Muharram processions, including Ashoora in wake of COVID -19 pandemic in Kashmir.
Aga Syed Mujtaba, the son of Shari Shian President Aga Syed Hasan Almosvi Alsafvi while addressing a press conference here said, “ We appeal to believers not to take out Muharram processions in wake of the COVID-19 crisis. It is a difficult and heart-breaking decision, but we have no option keeping the pandemic in view.”
Muharram is observed by Muslims with abstinence and prayers to mourn the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) in the battle of Karbala in the seventh century. It marks the first and one of the sacred months of the Islamic calendar.
He said it is the need of the hour to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) in letter and spirit. “It is not desirable to confront the Administration that has already asked people to follow SOP’s. If we do so, our problems will add and it will become more difficult to contain the spread of the virus,” Mujtaba said.
“During this Muharram, mourners observed all SOP’s. Hussaini Majalis were held but sanitizers and masks were properly used in Imambaras. I know it is difficult for believers to restrain themselves, but to combat the pandemic we need to stay away from processions,” Mujtaba said.
“Believers should mourn inside their homes, in the Imambaras while following SOP’s. People living in one area also should not congregate to mourn together, and the Majlis programme should be organized while adhering to norms,” he said.
He said there may be some miscreants who can mislead believers. “Let me tell believers, we are facing a serious crisis and it will be a murder if we force anyone to indulge in an act that is not desirable. We understand the pain and sentiments of the believers but it is the need of the hour to restrain ourselves and suspend Muharram processions,” Mujtaba said. (KNT)

 

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