Srinagar: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Elections, Javid Ahmad Dar, on Monday reviewed arrangements for the forthcoming observance of Muharram-ul-Harram in Bandipora and Budgam districts, directing officials to ensure seamless facilities for devotees during the holy month.
The Minister chaired separate review meetings in Sumbal and Budgam to assess the preparedness of various departments and monitor arrangements being put in place for religious gatherings and processions.
At Sumbal, the meeting was attended by MLA Sonawari Hilal Akbar Lone, Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Indu Kanwal Chib, senior officers of the civil and police administration, heads of departments, representatives of Shia organisations, civil society members and other stakeholders.
During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner briefed the Minister on the arrangements being made for the smooth and peaceful observance of Muharram across Sonawari and adjoining areas. She informed the meeting about measures relating to electricity supply, drinking water, sanitation, healthcare, road connectivity, traffic management and public distribution services.
Representatives of various Shia organisations and associations raised several issues concerning the availability of essential services during the holy month.
The Minister gave a patient hearing to the concerns and directed the concerned departments to take immediate steps for their timely redressal.
Emphasising the religious significance of Muharram-ul-Harram, Dar stressed the need for close coordination among departments to ensure that devotees do not face any inconvenience. He instructed officers to complete all arrangements well in advance and maintain constant monitoring of facilities.
The Minister laid special emphasis on sanitation and cleanliness around Imambaras, congregation sites and procession routes. He directed municipal authorities and the Rural Development Department to intensify cleanliness drives, ensure proper waste management and deploy adequate manpower and machinery during the Muharram period.
He also instructed all line departments to ensure uninterrupted delivery of essential services and maintain prompt response mechanisms for addressing public grievances.
Reiterating the government’s commitment towards facilitating the smooth conduct of religious events, Dar assured that all genuine demands projected by community representatives would be examined on priority and addressed in a time-bound manner.
Speaking on the occasion, MLA Sonawari Hilal Akbar Lone appreciated the efforts of the district administration and emphasised the importance of coordinated action among all departments. He also appealed to the public to maintain the sanctity, discipline and peaceful atmosphere associated with Muharram observances.
Later, the Minister chaired a similar review meeting in Budgam, where Deputy Commissioner Athar Aamir Khan briefed him on the district administration’s preparedness for Muharram.
The Deputy Commissioner informed the meeting that necessary measures are being undertaken to ensure smooth conduct of religious events and processions across the district.
The Minister directed officers to complete all arrangements before the commencement of Muharram and ensure the availability of all requisite facilities for devotees.
He stressed the importance of effective coordination among departments for efficient management of religious gatherings and processions and reiterated that the government remains committed to facilitating the smooth observance of Muharram while upholding peace, harmony and communal brotherhood.
Dar also interacted with representatives of Muharram committees and local stakeholders, who highlighted various requirements and suggestions regarding the arrangements.
Assuring full cooperation from the government, the Minister said all genuine concerns would be addressed on priority to ensure a peaceful, dignified and smooth observance of Muharram-ul-Harram.
The meeting in Budgam was attended by MLA Chadoora Ali Mohammad Dar, MLA Beerwah Dr. Shafi Ahmad Wani and MLA Khansahib Advocate Saif Ud Din Bhat, among others.
