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Shia Community Appeals to Police to Keep Religious Events Free from Political Interference
Hyderabad, December 21 (PMI) The centuries-old tradition of announcing the sighting of the Rajab moon through naqqara (ceremonial drums) in the Old City of Hyderabad has once again become a subject of controversy.
The naqqara tradition dates back to the Qutb Shahi period and continued during the Asaf Jahi era, after Independence, and even during the Andhra Pradesh government, with consistent cooperation from the police authorities.
According to unverified reports, the naqqara procession emerging from Panja Shah Wilayat was halted on the grounds of a lack of permission, causing concern among members of the Shia community who were awaiting the announcement. At the local level, it was reported that the intervention by Charminar police followed alleged misinformation provided by a political figure. However, the misunderstanding was later cleared after another individual explained the historical and traditional significance of the naqqara.
It is noteworthy that Hyderabad’s first Police Commissioner, Talib-ud-Daula, used to receive the same naqqara at Charminar, where ceremonial honours were also offered. The Shia community, known for its peaceful conduct, has, through the media, drawn the attention of Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar, IPS, and DCP South Zone Kiran Khare Bhakkar, urging them to ensure that their traditional religious programmes continue with full cooperation and without unnecessary political interference, in line with past practice.
Following the incident, some youths were heard remarking that “along with the moon of Rajab, a blemished political moon has also appeared.”
Meanwhile, Najaf Ali Shaukat, journalist and President of the Markazi Anjuman Matami Groohan, appealed to the Police Commissioner and the DCP South Zone to extend cooperation and make adequate arrangements for all religious programmes during the months of Rajab, Shaban, and Ramzan. He also advised organisers to submit written intimation to the police at least ten days in advance for conducting religious events.
He further stated that in recent press conferences, the Police Commissioner and the DCP had clarified that the public could meet them directly without intermediaries and that the police would extend all possible support within the framework of the law, while violations would not be overlooked. Najaf Ali Shaukat emphasised that the demands of the Shia community fall within the ambit of fundamental and religious rights guaranteed by the Constitution of India. He expressed hope that the police department would continue to play a responsible role in keeping religious programmes free from political interference, as per established tradition. (pressmediaofindia.com)
