Srinagar, July 25:
In a significant development, the Divisional Commissioner of Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, announced on Tuesday that the government is seriously considering lifting the decades-long restrictions on Muharram processions along two routes in Srinagar.
This decision came after a high-level meeting chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at the Civil Secretariat on Monday.
The meeting was attended by heads of religious organizations, prominent members of the Shia community, and senior officials from the administration and law enforcement agencies.
During the meeting, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasised the religious significance of Muharram and reassured the UT administration and Government of India’s unwavering commitment to making all necessary arrangements for the occasion. He stressed the importance of ensuring the smooth and safe conduct of the religious event.
Divisional Commissioner, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri expressed the government’s earnestness in addressing the matter, but he made it clear that the final decision ultimately lies with the Shia community. The authorities have urged the Shia community to provide specific details regarding the expected number of participants in the processions. This data will play a pivotal role in shaping the arrangements and security measures for the event.
In addition to discussing the Muharram processions, Bidhuri also highlighted the progress of the smart city projects in the city. He assured that several projects are on track and scheduled to be completed before Independence Day.
As the city gears up for the 8th and 10th Muharram, there is a sense of hope and anticipation among the Shia community for the successful lifting of restrictions and the smooth conduct of Muharram processions.
