The major religious places across Jammu and Kashmir have once again been closed for the general public where no mandatory Friday congregational prayers were held Friday. All the shrines and Masjids, falling under the jurisdiction of the Wakf board, remained closed for the mandatory prayers. It was just a week after that the Jamia Masjid remained closed for the general public again in wake of the Covid-19 pandemic as the experts here have sounded alert and claimed that the next 100 days are crucial regarding the 3rd possible wave of the deadly virus. However, the government has mentioned it that any gathering witnessing the participation of above 25 people shall not be allowed. Thus, the government should consider allowing the devotees to offer mandatory prayers, but only limited numbers shall be allowed to go inside the religious places at one time to ensure that the large gatherings are avoided. The local care takers and committees should be asked to keep the religious open for less than 25 people and any violations can lead to a stringent action. The religious places instead of remaining closed for the prayers, should be kept open for limited number of devotees so that the religious obligations are followed and the people can seek forgiveness and refuge from Almighty amid the prevalent Covid situation in Jammu and Kashmir. The limited number of devotees can also help in reducing the Covid cases and also preventing the third possible Covid wave.
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