Srinagar witnesses second consecutive procession after 35-year hiatus
Srinagar, July 15:Thousands of Shia Muslim mourners participated in the eighth Muharram procession in Srinagar, marking the second consecutive year the event has been permitted after a 35-year ban.
The procession, which started at Guru Bazar and proceeded through MA Road in Lal Chowk to Dalgate, saw mourners clad in black, carrying banners, and moving peacefully through the city. Local leaders and residents expressed gratitude to the administration for promoting religious tolerance and unity.
Sharing appreciation for the administration, Sameer Bhat of Gowkadal said, “I am grateful to the administration for allowing us to hold this traditional procession last year and again this year. I grew up hearing stories from my father about this event, which had been banned for 35 years. Today marks the second time I am participating.” Authorities coordinated extensively, with the municipal corporation handling sanitation and police ensuring security, leading to a incident-free event.
The district administration’s decision to allow the procession for the second year is seen as a positive step towards fostering religious harmony and respecting cultural traditions. Authorities had coordinated extensively to ensure the procession’s success, with the municipal corporation handling sanitation and the police maintaining tight security. “These measures ensured that the procession proceeded without any incidents,” Bhat added.
Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, V. K. Bidhuri, and IGP Kashmir V. K. Birdi oversaw arrangements, praising collaborative efforts contributing to the procession’s success.
Deputy Commissioner of Srinagar, Dr. Bilal, highlighted the extensive preparations made for the procession, which began at 5:30 AM. Provisions such as water distribution, toilets, and sprinklers were in place to cater to the mourners’ needs. The Deputy Commissioner noted that the community’s cooperation was instrumental in ensuring the event’s smooth execution.
