Srinagar, July 31 (GNS): Jammu and Kashmir is celebrating Eid-ul-Azha, commemorating the sacrifice offered by prophet Abraham, on Saturday. However, like last year, there would be no large gathering of people, this time due to lockdown over covid-19 pandemic. The authorities have already announced that congregations prayers will not be allowed at any place across the Jammu and Kashmir.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor, Girish Chandra Murmu, his advisors, chief secretary, divisional commissioner Kashmir, IGP Kahsmir among others conveyed warm greetings to the people of J&K in general and to the Muslim brethren in particular, on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Azha.
In his message of felicitations, the Lt Governor observed that this festival endorses the spirit of sacrifice, benevolence and generosity towards others. He hoped that the auspicious occasion would further enhance the amiable atmosphere and provide beacon light for prosperity and development in the UT.
Every festival is an opportunity to promote peace and harmony and I hope this tradition shall be nurtured to strengthen the bond of communal harmony, peace and amity between various sections of the society, he said.
The Lt Governor, in view of the emerging situation, urged the people to celebrate this festival in adherence to the guidelines and norms issued by the Administration.
He prayed for peace, progress and prosperity in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
National Conference Party President and Member of Parliament from Srinagar Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Party Vice President Omar Abdullah also extended warm greetings to people on the auspicious eve of Eid-ul -Zuha, praying for advent of peace and tranquility in J&K.
While greeting people the party president said that self-sacrifice and perseveration were central to the philosophy of Eid –ul –Zuha that opened up paths towards transcendence, truth and perfection. He said that sacrifice was the essential element in achieving an idyllic state of being by submitting one’s will before the almighty Allah with sincere intentions. He further said the divinely willed sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), his devotion and submission towards Almighty are the core values that one should try to emulate in one’s life. The day, Party president said, exhorts people towards righteousness and piety.
Advisor Farooq Khan described the festival as a reward from Almighty Allah.
He said celebrating Eid teaches us camaraderie, friendship, mutual respect and love for the masses.
He appealed people to remember their neighbours, orphans and the needy during Eid celebrations.
He requested the people to follow the health guidelines properly to stop further spreading of the COVID-19 during Eid celebrations.
Advisor Farooq Khan also prayed for peace, progress and prosperity in the J&K.
Advisor Rajeev Rai Bhatnagar wished that this auspicious occasion would bring in a renewed spirit of love and oneness through its message of self discipline and sacrifice among the people of J&K.
He hoped that this festival would further strengthen the bonds of communal harmony, brotherhood, amity among the people of J&K and revive the glorious pluralistic ethos for which Jammu and Kashmir has been known for centuries past.
Advisor Bhatnagar also appealed the people to follow necessary guidelines issued in view of the Global pandemic of the COVID 19 while celebrating the occasion and advised them to strictly follow the concept of social distancing.
The Advisor also prayed for the peace, progress and prosperity of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Advisor Baseer Ahmed Khan hoped that this festival would further strengthen the bonds of communal harmony, brotherhood, amity and revive the glorious pluralistic ethos for which Jammu and Kashmir has been known for centuries past.
He prayed for peace, progress and prosperity in J&K.
Advisor to Lieutenant Governor, K. K. Sharma said celebrating Eid ul Azha teaches us concepts of camaraderie, friendship, mutual respect, love for the destitute and downtrodden besides mutual co existence.
He hoped the festival brings peace, prosperity and happiness to the people of the Jammu and Kashmir and also strengthen our resolve to fight the global Pandemic of COVID 19.
Advisor Sharma also appealed people to remember their neighbours, orphans and the needy during Eid celebrations and also religiously follow COVID 19 protocols.
Chief Secretary, B V R Subrahmanyam said the holy occasion of Eid-ul-Azha symbolizes the strength of faith and sacrifice to be on the righteous path and emphasizes the spirit of charity and good deeds.
Chief Secretary prayed that the festival becomes a harbinger of peace and further strengthens the bond of communal harmony, mutual brotherhood, amity, and tranquillity.
Keeping in view the evolving COVID-19 pandemic situation, Chief Secretary urged people to adopt self-health protection measures during the festivities and maintain social distancing to prevent further spread of COVID-19.
Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Pandurang K Pole prayed for peace and prosperity in the UT.
He said this is a special occasion; however, people must strictly adhere to Covid-19 SOPs and guidelines while celebrating the festivity as the whole world is engulfed by the deadly pandemic.
The Div Com further appealed people to offer Eid-ul-Adha prayers at home besides avoiding large gatherings and thronging to public or religious places.
“Let us pray that we overcome this pandemic situation and I appeal people to follow all SOPs while marking this festive occasion”, he added.
Inspector General of Police Kashmir Zone Vijay Kumar (IPS) also greeted the people of Kashmir, Police personnel and their families on the eve of Eid-Ul-Zuha.
“IGP Kashmir has conveyed heartiest greetings and best wishes and hoped that this Eid will usher peace and happiness for all. He further said that the festival reminds us to share our joys with destitute and deserving. The occasion teaches us to rededicate ourselves for the service of people, reaffirm our commitment towards brotherhood and selfless service to humanity,” he said in a statement issued here.
In view of ongoing pandemic IGP Kashmir requested the general public to adhere to the guidelines and follow SOPs in letter and spirit so as to restrict the spread of deadly virus. He also requested community members to offer Eid prayers at respective homes so as to break the chain of Covid-19.
“IGP has also prayed for peace and prosperity of the Valley. He has expressed hope that this auspicious occasion would be a harbinger of peace and prosperity for all of us.” (GNS)
