Srinagar:
Former MLA Abid Hussain Ansari and the All Jammu and Kashmir Shia Association, led by Molvi Imran Reza Ansari, have announced their decision to boycott all government meetings related to the Muharram. This move comes in response to what they describe as the administration’s last-minute, insufficient efforts to cater to the community’s needs.
In a post on X, Abid Hussain Ansari said, “No entry for Srinagar Administration’s ‘Muharram arrangements’ at Imam Bargah Zadibal! We’re not buying their last-minute, half-hearted efforts to appease the community. No more ‘eye wash’! Our decision to boycott their meetings is a testament to our unity & resolve.”
Echoing these sentiments, former minister Imran Ansari criticized the Lieutenant Governor’s delayed response. “With six days left for Muharram to start, the Lieutenant Governor wakes up and holds a high-level meeting to facilitate. God, it seems he has a magic trick to make arrangements. Janab LG Sb, please take care of SANJY, we can take care of Muharram 2024 ourselves,” Imran posted on X.
At a press conference in Darul Jawad, Ansari spoke out about the frustrations of the community. He said, “For many decades, we’ve repeatedly requested help from various government departments. But they keep ignoring us, saying they don’t have the money, staff, or resources.”
Here’s a breakdown of the key issues raised:
- Medical care: The association highlighted a lack of proper medical support, insufficient medicine (especially for children), and a shortage of staff for first aid services.
- Food supplies: They complained about insufficient ration supplies, particularly rice and sugar, for religious observances during Muharram and Safar.
- Infrastructure: Neglected road maintenance by authorities has caused injuries and difficulties for mourners.
- Utilities: Frequent power outages during religious gatherings and a lack of support from various departments like LAWDA, PHE, and Fire Services were also mentioned as problems.
- Lack of dedicated point person: The association emphasized the need for a designated official (Nodal Officer) in each district to handle Muharram and Safar related issues, but their requests have been ignored.
- Traffic Arrangements: The association criticized the police for inadequate security and traffic management, especially regarding restrictions on processions.
Ansari went on to say that the community has suffered for too long due to the administration’s negligence. He feels things have gotten worse since the LG administration took over. “They keep giving us excuses and doing nothing. They’re ignoring our problems, and our people are still suffering. We will not attend meetings that don’t address our needs,” he said.
