Why Did the Karnataka Government Order Special Prayers for Armed Forces?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka government orders special prayers in mosques for armed forces.
- Special prayers held in temples to honor soldiers.
- 'Operation Sindoor' launched in response to Pahalgam attack.
- Minister B.Z. Zameer Khan emphasizes support for troops.
- Community unites in prayer for peace and security.
Bengaluru, May 8 (NationPress) Following a directive for special worship in temples throughout the state, the Karnataka government has issued an order to observe special prayers on Friday in mosques for the armed forces participating in ‘Operation Sindoor’ against Pakistan.
This operation is a response to the devastating Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 tourists.
Minister for Housing, Waqf, and Minority Welfare, B.Z. Zameer Ahmad Khan, has issued this order, instructing the Chief Executive Officer of the Karnataka State Waqf Board to ensure that special prayers are conducted during Friday namaz in all mosques across the state.
In his order, Minister Zameer emphasized: “The Indian armed forces have effectively dismantled terrorist hideouts under Operation Sindoor, in retaliation for the deaths of 26 Indian tourists. To bolster the morale of our soldiers who are combating terrorism and working toward peace in the nation, I direct that special prayers be held in all mosques affiliated with the Waqf Board, as well as in other mosques.”
On Thursday, temples across Karnataka held special prayers to honor deities, celebrating the success of ‘Operation Sindoor’ and seeking blessings for the safety of Indian armed forces members, following the government's instructions.
With over 34,000 temples under the Muzrai Department, the Karnataka government had mandated special prayers in temples statewide to commemorate the success of ‘Operation Sindoor’.
Priests performed special worship in honor of the Indian armed forces and soldiers, including a ‘Sankalpa puja’ aimed at strengthening and safeguarding the soldiers.
In numerous temples within the North Karnataka region, a ‘mangalsutra’ (sacred necklace symbolizing marital commitment) was placed before the deity as part of the rituals.
Special prayers and offerings were conducted, invoking divine blessings for the nation’s defenders.
Earlier, a video featuring Zameer Khan, expressing his willingness to become a suicide bomber for India and enter Pakistan with explosives for war, gained significant traction on social media.