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Wearing keffiyeh, Farooq Abdullah joins Muharram procession

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SRINAGAR: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah joined a Muharram procession in Srinagar's old city Sunday, wearing a Palestinian keffiyeh as a mark of solidarity with people of Palestine and Iran.

"We stand with the Islamic world, with Palestinians, and Iran for the Islamic war they are fighting," Farooq said. "Muslims must unite against all forms of evil and that is the only way peace can prevail in the world."

Islam promotes peace and brotherhood, he said and added Muharram served as a reminder to stand against tyranny. Farooq was accompanied by his grandsons, Zamir Abdullah and Zahir Abdullah, who also wore keffiyehs. The black-and-white patterned Palestinian keffiyeh, traditionally worn for protection from the sun, has gained use as a symbol of Palestinian nationalism and resistance.

Separately, L-G Manoj Sinha joined a Muharram procession in the Botakadal area of the old city. "I pay my tribute to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions. Their sacrifice for peace, love and compassion, guide us to build a society based on equality and harmony."

He said Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) gave the message of selfless service and guided humanity to care for those less fortunate. "Young generations must learn from the life and virtues of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and walk on the righteous path shown by him," Sinha said. He also served refreshments to mourners.

Meanwhile, prominent Shia leader Aga Syed Mohammad Hadi cautioned the govt against what he called "filing of open FIRs" and threatening arresting youths who participated in Muharram processions.

India is a democratic and free country and Shia mourners should not face arrest or intimidation after Muharram, he said while addressing a large gathering at Imambargah Bemina on Srinagar's outskirts. "If they arrest our boys after the 14th (of Muharram), we will all offer ourselves for mass arrest. Let's see how big their jails are."

His statement came days after police reportedly removed banners and portraits of slain Hezbollah leader Sayyid Hassan Nasrallah at some places in Budgam and Srinagar.

Police on Friday said several "individuals violated agreed-upon conditions during a Muharram procession, engaging in deliberate and unlawful acts".

"These actions were intended to provoke unrest, disturb public order and disrupt communal harmony, posing a serious threat to security and integrity of the nation," a police spokesperson said.

Police said legal action had been initiated under sections of BNS. "The accused have been identified and legal proceedings are underway."
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