Kabul – The Taliban Government in Afghanistan has imposed restrictions on the Muharram and Ashura festival. In many provinces including Herat, Muharram flags have been removed. The traditional 10-day event has been cut down to 3-day event. Shia clerics, workers and political figures have condemned this decision by Taliban.
What is Ashura festival ?
Ashura was celebrated worldwide by all the Muslims on 16thJuly. Ashura is celebrated by all the Muslims, but for the Shia Muslims it is a day of mourning. Ashura is a day to commemorate the day of the Battle of Karbala (present day Iraq) in the 7 thcentury. In this battle Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Mohammad was martyred. All the Muslims celebrate Ashura on the 10thday of Muharram in the first month of the Islamic calendar.
| Editorial Perspective
Restrictions are imposed on Muharram in an Islamic country like Afghanistan, even when Muslims haven’t committed any violent acts. While in India, restrictions are not imposed despite incidents of violence during Muharram processions. |
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