Eid prayers pass off peacefully in J&K; Indo-Pak troops exchange sweets on LoC

STATE TIMES NEWS

New Delhi: Eid-ul-Adha, also known as Bakrid, was celebrated with religious fervour across the country on Thursday, with people gathering at mosques and Eidgahs in large numbers to offer prayers and exchange the festival greeting ‘Eid Mubarak’ by embracing each other.
In Jammu and Kashmir, Eid prayers passed off peacefully and there was no report of any untoward incident, police said.
The biggest congregational prayers were held at the Hazratbal Shrine in Srinagar, where more than 50,000 people gathered, they said.
Smaller gatherings were reported at all Muslim places of worship across the Kashmir Valley, except for the historic Jamia Masjid in the old city. In Poonch, Indian and Pakistani troops came together at Rahe Milan to celebrate the festival by exchanging sweets and gifts.
Eid prayers were conducted across mosques in Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi, and Kathua of Jammu region.
“In Jammu, the biggest congregation takes place at Eidgah. The spirit of brotherhood sets a remarkable example. Apart from commemorating the Prophet’s sacrifice, we prayed for the peace and prosperity of our nation,” Gulam Mohmmad, a local resident, said.
The district administrations made elaborate arrangements, including stepping up security measures, to ensure a safe and smooth celebration of the festival.
Eid-ul-Adha is observed to commemorate the spirit of sacrifice and devotion to the Almighty.
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also greeted the people on the occasion. “Eid Mubarak! Greetings to the people on the holy festival of Eid-ul-Adha. The joyous occasion inspires each one of us to follow the path of love, compassion & forgiveness. May the festival of Eid-ul-Adha usher in peace, prosperity & happiness for all,” Sinha tweeted.
Senior BJP leader Devender Singh Rana also exchanged Eid greetings with the people at Sidhra Eidgah and Lower Ragoora Masjid, hoping this auspicious occasion will usher Jammu and Kashmir in peace and harmony.
“Pray such festivals to be an opportunity to rededicate ourselves to strengthen the bonds of inclusiveness, share our joys with others and serve the humanity”, Rana said. He also prayed for the wellness of the people.