Several Islamic organisations and masjid committees in Assam urged the entire Muslim community in the state on Tuesday to observe Shab-e-Barat from home.

Shab-e-Barat is observed as the night of forgiveness or the day of atonement by majority of the Muslim community. In a press statement, the Azan Fakir (Pir) Foundation Trust said people belonging to the Muslim community would observe Shab-e-Barat on Thursday. However, it appealed to them not to venture out of their houses.

The general secretary of the All Assam Goriya-Moriya Yuva Chhatra Parishad, Moinul Haque, said as Covid-19 cases had been reported in Assam also, people should no longer be out on the streets without valid reason.

“People are expected to follow the ongoing lockdown norms and we appeal to every Muslim in the state to stay indoors during the observation of the Shab-e-Barat,” Haque said.

The general secretary of the Burha Jame Masjid Committee-Ambari, Nikamul Haque, said the committee had not taken any measure or made arrangement for namaz on that day. It has also asked all not to come to the mosques during the lockdown.

The Central Hilal Committee, Assam, has also clarified that although Shab-e-Barat would be observed on Thursday, due to Covid-19 no mosque would hold any event this time.

People have welcomed the step and have assured full cooperation with the government during this period.

Shabbir Rahman, a resident of Islampur in Guwahati, said faith in “Allah” is something that comes from one’s heart and religious practices can be performed from home as well.

“We support our government in the fight against Covid-19 and hopefully every Muslim will observe Shab-e-Barat from home only. We will not venture out during this period,” he added.

Wasim Ahsan, a resident of Mathura Nagar, Guwahati, said although cancellations of celebrations or observations are sad, it is for the benefit of the people of the country.

He added: “Almost every person in the state is supporting the government and so will the Muslim community.”