Srinagar, July 24: To ensure the smooth and safe conduct of Muharram, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat today.
The meeting was attended by heads of religious organizations, prominent members of the Shia community, top officials from the administration, and law enforcement agencies.
Addressing the meeting, Lt Governor Manoj Sinha emphasized the utmost religious significance of the occasion and reaffirmed the commitment of the UT administration and Government of India to make all necessary arrangements for the occasion.
During the meeting, specific directives were issued to the Deputy Commissioners, focusing on crucial aspects such as improved connectivity to Imambaras, uninterrupted power supply, availability of extra ration, water, and essential amenities. The Lt Governor stressed on regular market inspections, maintaining cleanliness, and efficient traffic management during the Muharram period.
Recognizing the importance of healthcare, the meeting also prioritized providing the best possible medical facilities to the people, ensuring their well-being throughout the observance.
Lt Governor Manoj Sinha welcomed valuable inputs from representatives of the Shia Community, taking their suggestions into consideration while planning for the Muharram arrangements. He assured that prompt and appropriate actions would be taken to address any issues or demands raised during the interactive session.
During the meeting, Deputy Commissioners presented a comprehensive overview of the preparations and arrangements made in their respective districts, showcasing the diligent efforts taken to make Muharram a successful and meaningful event.
Meanwhile, the Shia associations of the Kashmir valley expressed gratitude to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for granting them a patient hearing regarding the conduct of the 8th and 10th Muharram processions and other development works pertaining to Shia-dominant areas.
During the meeting, the head of the Shia associations stated that the Lieutenant Governor had shown a positive inclination towards allowing the processions, pending a security review with the concerned agencies before a final decision is made.
Aga Syed Mujtaba Al Mosvi, Vice President of All J&K Anjuman-e-Sharie Shian, Darul Mustafa, Budgam, highlighted the improved situation in the Kashmir valley, citing the recent successful G-20 meeting in Srinagar as proof of the positive changes. He mentioned that the administration has earnestly considered the matter and there is hope that this time, they will be permitted to hold the processions.
The Shia organizations were also called in by the administration for the meeting, adding significance to the discussion.
Ghulam Mohammad Nagoo, Central Organizer of All J&K Anjuman-e-Sharie Shian, Darul Mustafa Budgam, echoed the optimism, expressing hope that the LG administration would grant permission for the processions.
This meeting holds historical importance as the 8th and 10th Muharram processions have not been conducted since 1989. The Shia associations stated that this year’s meeting with the LG was vital and filled with hope.
During the meeting, the Shia associations discussed other issues related to their daily lives, and the Lieutenant Governor attentively listened and expressed interest in addressing them.
President of Community Development and Employment Foundation, Hawal, Srinagar, Shabir Rizvi, expressed gratitude for the administration fulfilling their promises from the previous year, and now they are eagerly anticipating permission for the processions that have been absent for the past three decades.
As the wait for the administration’s decision continues, the Shia community remains hopeful about being able to conduct the significant 8th and 10th Muharram processions, marking a potentially historic moment in their religious and cultural observances.
