Emphasising the spiritual significance of Muharram-ul-Harram as a period of reflection, sacrifice, compassion and commitment to truth and justice, Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Elections, Javid Ahmad Dar, today chaired an extensive review meeting at Baramulla to assess the preparedness of various departments for smooth observance of Muharram-ul-Harram across the district.
The meeting was attended by MLA Baramulla Javid Hassan Baig, MLA Pattan Javaid Riyaz Bedar, MLA Sopore Irshad Rasool Kar, MLA Wagoora-Kreeri Irfan Hafiz Lone, senior officers of the civil and police administration, heads of various departments, representatives of Shia organisations, civil society members and other stakeholders.
Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, S.F Hamid briefed the Minister on the arrangements being put in place by the district administration for the peaceful and hassle-free observance of Muharram. He informed the meeting about the measures being undertaken across the key sectors, including power supply, drinking water, sanitation, healthcare services, road connectivity, traffic management and public distribution systems.
During the meeting, representatives of various Shia organisations and associations highlighted several issues and requirements concerning the provision of essential services during the holy month. Addressing the meeting, Javid Dar said that Muharram-ul-Harram carries profound religious and historical importance and serves as a source of inspiration for humanity by conveying the timeless message of sacrifice, patience, truth and righteousness.
He stated that it is the collective responsibility of all departments to ensure that devotees are able to observe the sacred month in a peaceful and dignified manner. The Minister stressed the need for close inter-departmental coordination and directed all the concerned departments to complete necessary arrangements well in advance.
He instructed the officers to maintain constant monitoring of facilities and establish effective response mechanisms for addressing public grievances promptly. Laying special emphasis on sanitation and cleanliness around Imambaras, religious congregational sites and procession routes, the Minister directed the Municipal authorities and the Rural Development Department to intensify cleanliness drives, ensure proper waste management and deploy adequate manpower and machinery throughout the Muharram period.
He further instructed all the line departments to ensure uninterrupted delivery of essential services, including electricity, drinking water, healthcare and transportation facilities, so that the devotees do not face any inconvenience. Reaffirming the Government's commitment towards facilitating the smooth conduct of religious events, Javid Dar assured that all genuine demands projected by the representatives would be examined on priority and addressed in a time-bound manner.
The Minister also appealed to the public, religious leaders and community representatives to continue extending their cooperation to the administration for maintaining the spirit of harmony, brotherhood and mutual respect during the observance of Muharram-ul-Harram.