Srinagar, June 26: Marking the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions in the Battle of Karbala, Youm-e-Ashura is being observed across Kashmir today with deep religious reverence. Thousands of mourners are expected to join the main procession from Bota Kadal to Imam Bara Zadibal in Srinagar.
The procession will bring together devotees from different parts of Kashmir at Zadibal, where they will pay tribute through mourning rituals, religious recitations, Majalis and prayers.
An official said the administration has put in place elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the event. Healthcare facilities, drinking water, sanitation, traffic regulation and emergency response services have been arranged along the procession route.
“A multi-layer security grid has been established with deployment of police, CRPF and other security personnel, while drone surveillance and CCTV monitoring are being used to maintain round-the-clock vigilance,” a senior police officer said.
The officer said the observance is being monitored closely at the highest level to ensure that Youm-e-Ashura passes off peacefully and without any untoward incident.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha is also scheduled to visit Zadibal to witness the solemn occasion and take stock of the arrangements.
In view of the expected large gathering, Srinagar Police has issued a comprehensive public advisory asking mourners and the general public to observe Muharram in a peaceful, dignified and disciplined manner.
According to the advisory, participants have been asked to maintain communal harmony, follow all directions issued by the administration and police authorities, cooperate with traffic police and volunteers for smooth movement, ensure that the procession remains confined to the permitted route and purpose, respect the religious sentiments and beliefs of all communities, and protect public and government property while maintaining cleanliness.
Police have also advised the public not to indulge in any unlawful activity or create any law and order situation, not to raise provocative slogans or make inflammatory speeches, not to obstruct traffic or pedestrian movement, and not to damage or misuse public property.
The advisory further states that people should not display provocative banners, posters, placards or flags, should not disrespect the National Flag or glorify any country, organisation or group, and should not carry or display flags or symbols of any country, organisation or group. It also cautions against engaging in any activity detrimental to the integrity, sovereignty and unity of the nation.
Srinagar Police appealed to all mourners and citizens to extend full cooperation, stating that public participation and responsible conduct would ensure a peaceful and dignified observance of Youm-e-Ashura.
