Delhi CM Kejriwal appeals for at-home Shab-e-Barat observance amid Coronavirus lockdown

Amid the rising cases of deadly coronavirus pandemic in the national capital, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Wednesday requested people to stay indoors while celebrating Shab-e-Barat as coronavirus lockdown continues.

In his tweet, Kejriwal said, "My sincere wishes on the occasion of Shab-e-Barat. I request one and all to pray inside their homes this year. Please ensure the safety of yourself and your family." 

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Earlier, Delhi Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal had appealed to the people from the Muslim community not to step out of their houses to pray on the occasion of Shab-e-Barat and follow the safety guidelines issued in view of coronavirus lockdown.

Shab-e-Barat, also known as the night of forgiveness or atonement in Islam. It will be observed on April 8-9. Those who observe it generally hold night-long prayers at places of worship and also visit graveyards to seek forgiveness for their departed loved ones.

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COVID-19 pandemic

On Wednesday, the national capital witnessed a spike of 93 cases taking the total COVID-19 tally to 669. According to the latest update of the Health Ministry, about 5,274 cases of COVID-19 infection have been reported in the country including 4,714 active cases. While 149 deaths have been reported overall, around 411 people have been cured. 

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