Special DG Coordination, IGP Kashmir, Div Com oin Muharram procession

Srinagar, Jul 4: In a gesture of communal harmony and solidarity, top civil administration and police officials on Friday participated in the 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar.

The procession, held at Lal Chowk, marked one of the largest Shia Muslim congregations in valley ahead of Ashura—the 10th day of Muharram that commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS).

To express solidarity with the mourners and to ensure public reassurance, key officials including Special Director General Coordination, SJM Gillani , Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir V.K. Birdi, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Dr. Akshay Labroo, and SSP Srinagar Dr Sundeep Chakraborty participated in the procession. The officials were seen serving refreshments to mourners amid heat wave.

Divisional Commissioner Bidhuri assured that the administration had made comprehensive arrangements to facilitate a safe and smooth procession. “From drinking water and medical facilities to traffic regulation and security measures, all necessary arrangements were in place well in advance. We appeal to all mourners to uphold the sanctity of the occasion and focus on the true spirit of the procession,” he said.

IGP Kashmir VK Birdi said that all security protocols were implemented to ensure the peaceful conduct of the event. He also mentioned ongoing discussions with religious organisers in various districts regarding the upcoming 10th Muharram processions, adding that the administration is committed to supporting the observance of religious events while maintaining peace and order.

Many participants expressed appreciation for the peaceful environment and the support provided by the administration, acknowledging that such gestures contribute to communal harmony and foster a sense of mutual respect across different communities.