UP: No permission for Muharram processions in view of COVID-19; DGP releases guidelines

In view of novel coronavirus situation in India and outbreak of a possible third wave of pandemic, Uttar Presh government has announced suspension of Muharram processions this year. UP Directorate General of Police (DGP) has issued guidelines keeping COVID-19 protocols into consideration as no one is allowed to gar and carry out mourning processions.

government said that action would be taken against those who do not follow rules. order instructs police to take special vigilance amid festival. cops have been ordered to keep a tight vigil at places where re have been disputes.

circular by UP DGP Mukul Goel has also asked police in all districts to take clerics, peace committees, religious leers and elite citizens in confidence by respective district ministrations to ensure a prohibition on garings.

Every year, thousands of people gar to take part in mourning processions all over country. Shia Muslims take out Muharram processions where several Tazia (a replica of tomb of Imam Hussain) are presented across norrn states.

Muharram is observed by Muslims to mourn death of Hazrat Imam Hussain, in battle of Karbala, in seventh century. y carry out processions on tenth day of first month of Islamic calendar which falls on August 20 this year and is called Youm-e-Ashura. 

What is Youm-e-Ashura?

Youm-e-Ashura or Ashura is day when Hazrat Imam Hussain, grandson of Prophet Muhamm was martyred in battle of Karbala in seventh century. Since n, Hussain's and his relatives' death is mourned by Shia Muslim community. festival symbolises spirit of sacrifice.

COVID-19 in Uttar Presh

Meanwhile, Uttar Presh has so far reported 17,08,441 COVID-19 cases, according to last update by Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Of total cases, 16,84,973 individuals have recovered from illness. Meanwhile, 22,756 people have also died due to coronavirus.