ISLAMABAD: The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) today (Tuesday) announced special guidelines for majalis and processions in the holy month of Muharram to guard against the spread of COVID-19.
According to the coronavirus monitoring body, the special guidelines have been issued keeping in view the various recommendations forwarded by the religious scholars.
The forum stressed that all gatherings and processions must be held in accordance with the government-mandated safety protocols. “All participants must ensure they wear a mask and maintain social distancing,” it added.
The organisers, for their part, must use thermal screening devices to check the temperatures of participants before permitting them entry. They must also guarantee the provision of hand sanitisers and masks to those without any.
The forum further said that all gatherings must be held in large places that are well ventilated, adding that private gatherings at homes must be avoided. “The administration may use the services of razakaars for the enforcement of coronavirus safety protocols,” it added.
It mandated the display of all coronavirus safety precautions in clearly visible places throughout the gatherings’ venues and processions’ routes.
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee on Monday sighted the Muharram-ul-Haram moon, which rang in the new Islamic year, 1443 AH. Consequently, the first of Muharram begins today. Youm-e-Ashura will be marked on August 19 (Thursday).
