Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Wakf Board Saturday announced suspension of celebrations and congregational prayers on Shab-e-Meraj, falling on March 22, in view of threat of the contagious coronavirus.
Shab-e-Meraj, observed on 27th Rajab of Islamic Calendar, is an occasion when thousands of devotees throng Masjids and Shrines across Kashmir and offer night long prayers.
The biggest congregational on this occasion is traditionally witnessed at revered shrine Dargah Hazratbal here.
Wakf Board Secretary Showkat Beigh said that in view of the outbreak of COVID-19, and precautions and prevention against this contagious disease, it was decided to suspend all religious gatherings. “After consultation with Islamic scholars about prevailing situation, it was decided to suspend regular prayers in shrines, Masjids affiliated with the Wakaf Board. No Shab-e-Meraj celebrations will be held,” he said.
He informed that displaying of the Holy Relic on the occasion of Meraj-e-Alam celebrations has also been suspended.
Meanwhile Grand Mufti Nisar-ul-Islam Saturday asked people to avoid religious gatherings and other ceremonies including weddings and condolence meetings.
