Shia Council of Scholars opposes government restrictions on holding Muharram ceremonies

Bayan News – The Shia Council of Scholars of Afghanistan has confirmed that the Kabul interim government has imposed restrictions on holding Muharram programs due to security threats.

In a statement issued on Tuesday (July 18), the council said that a seven-member committee has been formed to coordinate with government representatives and take necessary measures to hold magnificent and secure Muharram programs and ceremonies.

According to the Shia Council of Scholars, government security officials raised the issue of limiting venues and Muharram programs due to security threats in a meeting with members of the council.

The statement by the Shia Council of Scholars states: “While emphasizing the rejection of restrictions, a seven-member delegation has been appointed to talk to the officials of the Islamic Emirate and convey the message of the Afghan Shias to them.”

The Shia Council of Scholars of Afghanistan continues to emphasize that it has clearly and explicitly stated its position and reasons and expressed its concerns about the consequences of such restrictions.

The Shia institution of Afghanistan has urged government officials to reconsider the restrictions so that mourners of Imam Hussain can hold their ceremonies as in previous years.

Earlier, it was reported that the Kabul interim government had imposed restrictions on holding Muharram ceremonies, and subsequently, Zabihullah Mujahid, the government’s spokesman, explained that these restrictions were imposed due to security threats.