Srinagar: J&K administration by LG Mnaoj Sinha has prohibited the 8th and 10th Muharram processions from Gurubazar to Buchwara and Abi-Guzar towards Zadibal routes of Srinagar on Saturday.
The Muharram procession from Guru Bazar to Dal Gate in Srinagar has not been allowed by the authorities, Police said in a statement.
“General public is requested to respect rule of law and don’t appreciate/endorse any rumour regarding procession or rally,” reads the statement.
Since 1989, the two major processions of 8th and 10th Muharram were banned by the then administration and the ban continues in the Muslim majority Himalayan region of Kashmir till today.
Several governments had cited ‘Law and order’ situation as the main reason for the religious ban.
Meanwhile, the District Magistrate Srinagar said that decision not to allow the Muharram procession has been taken in a larger public interest and taking into account, among others, intelligence reports.
“Law & order and Security concern of the Union Territory is the top most priority of the Govt. of the Jammu and Kashmir keeping into view the larger public interest and safety of its citizens,” the District Magistrate said.
“In view of the facts and circumstances read in conjunction with the reports of Intelligence Agencies thereof, more particularly the security concerns of the District Srinagar with respect to the Muharram, the processions therein cannot be allowed on the Gurubazar toward Buchwara and Abi-Guzar towards Zadibal routes respectively,” he said.
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims across the world commemorate the martyrdom of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Grandson, Hussian who was killed by Yazid in 680 in the battle of Karbala (Iraq) along with his 72 companions.
The processions are taken through different routes to mark and remember his martyrdom.
Muslims believe Husain fought against tyranny and oppression and taught people to stand against injustice.
(With GNS Inputs)