Punjab government has announced its decision to ban Youm-e-Ali processions and Itikaf across the province as a preventive measure amid COVID-19 crisis.
According to notification issued by the provincial government, Youm-e-Ali procession which are held on 21 Ramazan to commemorate the martyrdom of Hazrat Ali – the fourth caliph.
Furthermore, the government has also banned Itikaf – a period of seclusion in mosques to pray in the last 10 days of Ramazan.
However, special SOPs and guidelines have been issued for majalis which have been allowed on the condition that preventive measures and government instructions are strictly adhered to.
People will be allowed to hold majalis in Imam Bargahs and houses which cannot exceed the one hour time limit, organizers will be held accountable in case of any violations of the government SOPs and guidelines.
In addition to it government has also issued SOPs for barber shops, beauty salons and gyms, where the service providers will be responsible for providing hand sanitizers and gloves and will be obligated to follow government guidelines.
Punjab has reported a total of 13,561 confirmed coronavirus cases, with 4,626 recoveries and 223 deaths.
