Srinagar: The government on Thursday lifted 34-year-old ban on Muharram procession on a traditional route here as hundreds of mourners passed through the Lal Chowk area amid tight security.
The 8th Muharram procession used to come out from Guru Bazar and culminate at Imambargah Dalgate before it was banned in 1989.
According to an order by District Magistrate Srinagar, the Shia mourners were allowed two-hour window from 6 am to 8 am for the procession. Mourners filled the streets and marched peacefully on the Gurubazaar to Dalgate route carrying flags and chanting in unison.
Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha remembered the sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and the martyrs of Karbala.
In a statement, the Lt Governor said: “I bow to the martyrs of Karbala and recall sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his ideals. Today is a historic occasion for Shia brethren in Kashmir valley as after 34 years 8th Muharram procession is taking place on the traditional route, from Guru Bazar to Dalgate”.
“For 34 years, Muharram procession was banned on the traditional route. We respect the sentiments of Shia brethren and I assure the community that the administration will always stand by them. It is also the testimony to change and normalcy in J&K UT,” the Lt Governor said.
Today the entire world is witnessing commitment and determination of the government to ensure peaceful environment, freedom, love, compassion and harmony in society, he added.
“It is an occasion to reaffirm our commitment to peace and dedicate ourselves to the progress and prosperity of J&K UT. Several historic decisions have seen the light of the day in a few years and a peaceful J&K has emerged on the horizon. Let’s further strengthen our bonds and unity,” the Lt Governor said. (GNS)
