New York, August 9: A relaxation in curfew, along with a partial upliftment of curbs imposed on telephonic lines and public movement, is expected on Sunday, a day before Jammu & Kashmir along with the rest of India celebrates Eid al-Adha. The restrictions came into place on Monday, hours before the central government issued an executive order revoking the state's special status by abrogating Article 370. PM Modi Explains Rationale Behind His Big Kashmir Move.
Senior officials, while speaking to HT, have indicated that restrictions will be partially lifted on the occasion of Eid al-Adha or Bakra Eid. Muslims gather in large numbers in their respective localities on the day for congregational prayers, which is followed by sacrificing of cattle by several households.
However, a top official of the state's administration told The Indian Express that the final call on lifting on curbs for Eid will be taken on Sunday. K Vijay Kumar, Advisor to Governor Satyapal Malik, had claimed that some relaxation will be made for Friday congregational prayers while a decision on Eid is awaited.
However, a senior CRPF official while speaking to reporters has claimed that no order has been given so to the security forces to relax the curfew for Friday congregational prayers.
During the past incidents of resentment in the Valley, local dissenters have resorted to stone pelting following congregational prayers. This could be one of the reasons behind the authorities not considering to relax curbs for Friday.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi while addressing the nation on Thursday said he wants to assure the residents of Kashmir that they will be allowed to celebrate Eid with no major inconvenience. "Government will ensure a safe environment for smooth celebration of Eid," he said.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 09, 2019 09:59 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).