Srinagar/UNI: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday described the 8th day Muharram procession taken out from traditional Guru Bazar to Dalgate, after 34 years, a “historic occasion”.

“Today is a historic occasion for Shia brethren in Kashmir valley as after 34 years, the 8th Muharram procession is taking place on the traditional route, from Guru Bazar to Dalgate”, the LG tweeted.

“I bow to the martyrs of Karbala and recall sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) & his ideals”, he said.

He said for 34 years, Muharram procession was banned on the traditional route. "We respect the sentiments of Shia brethren and I assure the community that the administration will always stand by them. It is also the testimony to change and normalcy in Jammu & Kashmir," he said.

The 8th Muharram procession used to come out from Guru Bazar and culminate at Imambargah Dalgate before it was banned in 1989.

Image Credit: UNI

“Today the entire world is witnessing the commitment and determination of the government to ensure a peaceful environment, freedom, love, compassion and harmony in society,” Sinha said.

Sinha said  it is an occasion to reaffirm our commitment to peace and dedicate ourselves to the progress & prosperity of J&K UT.

Several historic decisions have seen the light of the day in a few years and a peaceful J&K has emerged on the horizon. Let's further strengthen our bonds and unity, the LG added.