COVID-19: Masjids, shrines wear deserted look on Juma-tul-Vida in JK | KNO

Kashmir News Observer (KNO)

Srinagar, May 22 (KNO): In first of its kind, the Masjids and shrines in Jammu and Kashmir witnessed no large gatherings on the Juma-tul-Vida, which otherwise would remain flooded with the devotees. Unlike previous years, the outbreak of deadly Coronavirus across the globe as well as in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir kept all the devotees indoors who preferred to pray at home as advised by the religious clerics as well as the government to prevent the virus from spreading. The Masjids and shrines on Juma-tul-Vida would remain flooded with devotees where special prayers were being held by the religious clerics to seek mercy of almighty Allah. As per news agency–Kashmir News Observer (KNO), correspondents However, the Masjids and shrines including Dargah Hazratbal and historic Jamia Masjid in old City area of Srinagar remained locked for the devotees as precautionary measure in wake of the Coronavirus. The Masjids and shrines remained locked from last over two months now following the directions by the government with an aim to prevent the disease from spreading. The religious places also remained closed for the devotees on the Laila-tul-Qadr or Shab-e-Qadr. Pertinently, at least 20 people have died due to COVID-19 and left over 1400 people infected in Jammu and Kashmir. The government has stated that over 680 patients out of over 1400 patients recovered so far. Moreover, the government today eased the restrictions in some of the areas where people were seen buying essentials throughout the days. Amid lockdown, some of the markets remain open today where people were seen buying essentials ahead of the Muslim festival, Eid-ul-Fitr. However, the people complained of shortage of poultry and other things, appealing the administration to ensure the food stuff is available in the market –(KNO)