Supreme Court denies permission for Muharram processions

The court said it could not pass general directions for the entire nation, as it could create chaos and would lead to a particular community being targetted for the spread of COVID-19.

New Delhi:The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to allow Muharram processions across the country on August 29 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The bench led by Chief Justice of India SA Bobde was hearing a plea which sought directions to allow Muharram processions by the Shia community, by permitting only five people to take out the procession.

In the last hearing, the CJI had asked the petitioner to implead the states in the plea, stating that the court could not pass orders without hearing the view of the states.

Today, CJI Bobde observed that while in case of Jagannath Puri, the petitioners had sought permission for one specific location, but in the case of Muharram, the petitioner was seeking directions for the whole country and the risks could not be assessed for the same.

If it was one specific place we can assess the risk and pass orders, said CJI Bobde.

The court observed that passing general directions would create chaos and a particular community can be targetted for spreading COVID-19. Meanwhile, the apex court judges have asked the petitioner to approach the Allahabad High Court for relief.

Muharram, is the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered sacred by Muslims who observe the month with abstinence and prayers to mourn the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain in the battle of Karbala in the 7th century.

Read:UP government allows 'tazias', 'majlis' during Muharram with restrictions