Why Did Top Officers Join the Muharram Procession in Srinagar?

Srinagar, July 4 (NationPress) In a remarkable display of goodwill and solidarity, high-ranking civil administration and police officials participated in the 8th Muharram procession in the city of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, on Friday.

The 8th Muharram procession is one of the largest gatherings of Shia Muslim mourners leading up to the 10th Muharram, which commemorates the martyrdom of the Prophet’s grandson, Imam Hussain, who was killed by King Yazid's forces in 680 AD at Karbala, located along the banks of the Euphrates in Iraq.

The Euphrates River holds significant historical relevance in Islam, as the forces of Yazid denied Imam Hussain, his family, and even his 6-month-old son, Ali Asghar, access to water during the siege of Karbala.

Muharram marks the first month of the Islamic calendar, and the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his companions represents a profound episode of persecution faced by the Prophet's descendants.

During this sacred month, Shia Muslims observe mourning through chest-beating and processions, a practice that resonates with Sunni Muslims worldwide.

Demonstrating their unity with the mourners, key officials including Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir V.K. Birdi, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Dr. Akshay Labroo, and SSP Srinagar Sundeep Chakarvourti participated in the procession at Lal Chowk, offering water to mourners under the blazing sun.

The Divisional Commissioner assured that all necessary arrangements, including drinking water, medical assistance, security, and traffic management, were established well in advance to facilitate a smooth and safe procession.

“We urge all mourners to stay focused on the true essence of the procession and to maintain its sanctity,” the Divisional Commissioner stated, emphasizing the importance of upholding the religious spirit and decorum of the event.

IGP Kashmir Birdi confirmed that comprehensive security measures had been implemented to ensure the peaceful conduct of the procession.

Regarding the upcoming 10th Muharram procession, the IGP noted, "The administration is in discussions with organizers in various locations to ensure that these religious events are supported effectively."

Mourners expressed appreciation that for the third consecutive year, the authorities have permitted the 8th Muharram procession with adequate preparations.

Since the onset of armed conflict in Kashmir in 1990, both the 8th and 10th Muharram processions were previously prohibited to maintain law and order.

It was in 2022 that the administration, led by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, permitted the return of this religious observance.

Since then, the 8th Muharram procession has unfolded peacefully, with thousands of participants along the designated route in Srinagar.