Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday expressed hope that the Youm-e-Ashura procession would soon be restored to its original traditional route, saying his government would continue its efforts to ensure its full restoration.
Speaking to reporters after joining mourners at Zadibal, Omar, said the month of Muharram, particularly the 10th day, Youm-e-Ashura, holds immense religious and historical significance.
“The sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and the lessons we draw from it are of immense importance. As long as we remember those teachings, it will be for our betterment. But when we forget them, we end up facing destruction and ruin,” he said.
Referring to the restoration of the historic Ashura procession route, the Chief Minister said, “We sincerely hope that the day will soon come when the Ashura procession is restored to its original traditional route. We made several efforts in the past to revive the procession on its historic route, but we could not achieve that completely. We will continue our efforts in the future as well.”
Earlier in the day, the Chief Minister joined Youm-e-Ashura mourners at Zadibal and distributed water and milk at a sabeel (refreshment stall) set up by the National Conference. He was accompanied by his Advisor Nasir Aslam Wani and MLA Zadibal Tanvir Sadiq.
He also interacted with mourners and volunteers and participated in the distribution of refreshments as part of the Ashura commemorations.
Notably, thousands of mourners gathered across Srinagar on Friday to observe Youm-e-Ashura, commemorating the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions in the Battle of Karbala. The traditional Ashura procession was taken out from Botakadal to Zadibal amid elaborate security arrangements—(KNO)