Ashura processions in Kashmir mark the Day of Ashura commemorating the death of Husayn ibn Ali in the Battle of Karbala.[1] Major mourning processions have been banned by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir since the 1990s when there was a rise in insurgency in the state.[2][3] Smaller processions are permitted in some predominantly Shia parts of the state, including in the districts of Baramulla, Kulgam, Leh and Kargil. In the state capital of Srinagar, processions are not allowed along the traditional route that begins at Abi Guzar, passes through Maisuma, and ends at Zadibal and there are sometimes clashes between the mourners and the police.[3][4][5]

The government privately cites fear of militant strikes as a reason for the restrictions.[1] Shia leaders in the state, such as Mohammad Abbas Ansari, complain that the restrictions are discriminatory and impinge on their freedom of religion.[1][6]

In 2023, the Muharram 8th procession was allowed after 34 years of hiatus.[7][8]

References

  1. 1 2 3 Islamic Republic News Agency (17 December 2010). "India: Govt clamps curfew to stop main Ashura procession in Kashmir". ReliefWeb. Archived from the original on 2 November 2014. Retrieved 11 April 2015.
  2. ↑ "Ashura to be observed across Valley today". The Tribune. 24 October 2015. Retrieved 26 January 2017.
  3. 1 2 Ashiq, Peerzada (15 December 2010). "Curfew to prevent Muharram procession". Hindustan Times. Archived from the original on 2 April 2015. Retrieved 11 April 2015.
  4. ↑ "Muharram in Srinagar marred by violence". The Telegraph. 28 December 2009. Archived from the original on March 1, 2015. Retrieved 11 April 2015.
  5. ↑ Hamdani, Syed Imran Ali (5 November 2014). "Amid curbs on traditional route, district admin monitors Zadibal procession". GreaterKashmir.com. Archived from the original on 11 April 2015. Retrieved 15 April 2015.
  6. ↑ "Molvi Abbas denounces Ban on Ashura Processions". Scoop News. Retrieved 10 February 2014.
  7. ↑ "Historic 8th Muharram Procession Takes Place in Kashmir Valley After 34 Years". The Chenab Times. 27 July 2023. Retrieved 27 July 2023.
  8. ↑ Excelsior, Daily (27 July 2023). "Muharram Procession Held First Time After 34 Years In Srinagar: LG Manoj Sinha". Daily Excelsior. Retrieved 27 July 2023.


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