UP bans religious processions during Muharram, Shia clerics raise questions over objectionable language in the circular

Shia clerics were unhappy with Muharram being repeatedly referred to as a 'festival' in the circular issued by Uttar Pradesh DGP Mukul Goel.

New Delhi: The Uttar Pradesh Police has prohibited the religious processions during Muharram due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the circular issued by Uttar Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Mukul Goel on July 31, the Shia clerics have raised questions over the objectionable language used in it. They were unhappy with Muharram being repeatedly referred to as a 'festival' in the circular issued to police personnel in all districts. Police officials have also been asked to take clerics in confidence to ensure a ban on congregations   The All India Shia Personal Law Board has now convened a meeting on Monday (August 2) evening to discuss the issue. The clerics have also reportedly demanded that the Yogi Adityanath-led government should immediately withdraw the guidelines and termed it as a 'charge sheet against the Shia community'.