SC denies permission for Muharram processions, amid COVID-19 risk

The Supreme Court on Thursday rejected a plea seeking permission to hold Muharram processions across the country, noting that it would lead to a particular community being targeted for spreading COVID-19.

Uttar Pradesh native Syed Kalbe Jawad, a Shia leader, had sought permission for holding processions, and cited the Supreme Court’s order in June, allowing the Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha.

 The petitioner also cited Supreme Court permission for holding prayers in certain Jain temples in Mumbai.

The three-justice bench led by Chief Justice of India S.A. Bobde and comprising Justices A.S. Bopanna and V. Ramasubramaniun observed “granting general directions to take out procession across the country shall lead to chaos”.

When the petitioner sought permission for Muharram processions in Lucknow, citing the large Shia population the city, the Supreme Court directed him to approach the Allahabad High Court. Based on sighting of the moon, Muharram processions will be held on Friday or Saturday.