Malerkotla gears up for low-key Ramadan
Tribune News Service
Malerkotla (Sangrur), April 23
Malerkotla town which is dominated by Muslims is gearing up for the holy month of Ramadan at a time when the whole country is grappling with the Covid pandemic. For the first time ever, people won’t be able to organise Iftar parties, share sweets or even offer Namaz, let alone going to a mosque.
Many have high hopes as they believe that their prayers of Covid-19 crisis coming to an end will be heard.
Mufti-Aazam, Punjab, has also issued guidelines to all Muslim residents of the state to stay indoors during the month of Ramadan. He also uploaded a video on social media to show support to the administration.
For local shopkeepers, the month of Ramadan means spurt in business, as at the end of this month, preparations for Eid begins and locals splurge while shopping. However, this time, things are different, as all shops have been lying closed for the last one month to prevent the spread of Covid. “Since my childhood, we have been attending Iftar parties during the opening of ‘Rozas’ in the month of Ramadan. However, this time it’s going to be different as we would celebrate indoors, showing our support with the administration,” said Iqbal Fouji, former president of Malerkotla Nagar Council.
“All of us are standing with the government to battle the virus. This time, there won’t be any Iftar party and no offering of Namaz at any mosque. We will pray with our families at our homes for this virus to escape from our lives. Ramadan will start from the night of April 24,” Ertiqaul Hasan, Mufti-Aazam, Punjab, told The Tribune at his Malerkotla office.
Malerkotla SDM Vikramjit Panthey said: “Water will be supplied to houses at 2.30 am from tomorrow as against 4 am earlier. Market committee secretary will ensure home delivery of fruit and vegetable and electricity department will ensure round-the-clock supply during the month of Ramadan. We request everyone to stay indoors and it will be our endeavour to ensure that all essentials reach you on your doorsteps,” said the SDM.
On Wednesday, the state government had issued an advisory, wherein it asked everyone to celebrate the holy month Ramadan taking all precautions in the wake of Covid pandemic.
