The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Monday modified the earlier directions issued regarding the Muharram processions/gatherings stating that appropriate decisions for suitable action will be taken by the District Magistrates in consultation with police, health, and other stakeholders.
“The meeting regarding the commencement of Muharram was held on 14-07-2021 with regard to arrangements to be put in place by various departments—water supply, power facility, health, sanitation, etc,” read an order issued by Divisional Administration Kashmir.
“According to the earlier review meeting held earlier on 14-07-2021, which also added that the meeting was held almost three weeks prior to commencement of Muharram. The Religious functions are being held by the Shia community for two to three weeks during the Muharram.”
“Directions were passed in the said meeting, which contained in the minutes that all religious processions/gatherings will be held as per the Covid SOPs/guidelines issued by the Government from time to time. The Covid-19 situation is changing and the numbers of positive cases are still being reported from all districts in Kashmir,” the order reads.
It further states that as such, the earlier directions issued vide above referred minutes with regard to conducting processions/gatherings and management of law and Order, etc are modified and appropriate decisions for suitable action will be taken by the Districts Magistrate concerned in consultation with police, health, and other stakeholders so as to comply with the COVID norms and maintain the smooth law and order.