Pakistani clerics and government strike COVID-19 deal ahead of Ramadan

Pakistani clerics and government strike COVID-19 deal ahead of Ramadan

Ramadan

Islamabad, April 20, 2020 (dpa/NAN) The Pakistani government on Monday brought the country’s powerful Muslim clerics on board for its coronavirus battle plan with religious leaders agreeing to restrictions on mosques if the epidemic worsens or rules aren’t followed.

Muslims across the world are set to begin fasting for Ramadan this April.

During the holy month, mosques in Pakistan are usually at capacity with thousands of worshippers.

“We have allowed the government to restrict or ban congregational prayers at a mosque if there is violation of the agreement,’’ Allama Tahir Ashrafi told dpa, following a meeting with Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Khan had convened the meeting to ensure the implementation of measures aimed at preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus, a statement issued by the prime minister’s office said.

The clerics’ assurance is seen as a win for the government, which had initially given in to pressure and withdrawn a ban on congregational prayers.

Under the 20-point plan for night-time prayers during Ramadan, carpets and prayer mats will be banned and mosques must be disinfected regularly.

The prayers will not be allowed in spaces other than mosques.

Those fasting break their fast each day with the iftar meal at sunset which must take place at home this year.

The rules make face masks obligatory in mosques, while people aged over 50 and children will no longer be allowed in.

Pakistan has confirmed 8,000 coronavirus cases, 176 of which have been fatal so far.

According to official projections, the country’s caseload is to surpass 15,000 next month.

Around a third of those infected in Pakistan are members of a religious group who attended a huge Islamic gathering in March. (dpa / NAN)

HS/WOJ

======

Edited by Halima Sheji/Wale Ojetimi

=========================