Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (SHP)

Bengaluru, Apr 16: The Holy month of Ramadan is around the corner and considering the importance of lockdown the secretary to Government Central Waqf Council, Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India issued directives to suspend gathering for congregational prayer or majlis, Iftaar in Masjid, Darghas, Imam Bara's during the Holy month.

Considered as the most blessed month by Muslims around the world, Ramadan is to commence on April 24 to 25.

 
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Earlier the Government of India had issued an order for the strict closing down of every religious place for the public. The advisory was issued as a measure to prevent mass gathering at places of worship which could promote the spread of the virus.

Meanwhile, the Muslim body in the circular released also stated that Azan was to be given at a low decibel and the Namaz including Friday prayers was to be performed by the Pesh Imams, Muazzans and Masjid staff only. No public as per the government orders is to be allowed to offer Namaz.

The Imarat-e-Sharia of Karanataka in his directions urged the Muslims of Karnataka to adhere to the guidelines regarding social distancing and lockdown by the Government of India.

On the other hand, the chief executive officer KSBA issued orders had suspended congregational prayers in all Masjids and Dargahs across Karnataka till April 14, the date of lockdown. However, with the new development regarding the extension of lockdown, following directions have been issued to the management of the Masjid/Dargahs.

The below laws are to be followed up to May 3:

1. No public allowed to perform 5 times congregational prayers including Jumma and Taraweeh prayers in the Masjid.

2. No public address system to be used by the staff of the Masjid for offering Namaz including Jumma and Taraweeh.

3. Azan to be given at low decibel through Public address system.

4. The Muazzan or Imam of the Masjid to make announcements regarding the end of Sahri and beginning of Iftar is usually made during the month of Ramadan.

5. No arrangements of Dawat-e-Sahri or Iftar to be organised.

6. No preparation of porridge (Ganji/ Aash / Juices) in the Masjid premises for distribution in the mohallas.

7. No eatery stalls near Masjid or Dargahs to be installed.

The Muslim governing body as urged for the compulsory following of the order and violations if any or by any is to be intimated to either the jurisdictional station house officer or the police station.