The Uttar Pradesh government has banned Muharram due to Covid-19 outbreak. In a letter sent to the Superintendent of Police, Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police Mukul Goel has directed that Muharram must be observed in the state in accordance with Covid appropriate behavior.
However, the clerics have raised questions over the use of the word ‘festival’ to describe the event.
No procession (called tazia) is allowed to be taken out during the 10 days of the event from August 10 to August 19 when Muharram will be observed. Goel has also directed that clerics must be involved to ensure Covid-19 guidelines are followed.
He has also directed that all the entries in festival registers available in various police stations must be studied, and no permission for a separate route should be granted.
