This year, Bakrid will be celebrated on July 21 in India. The Bakrid relaxations by Kerala are concerning amid a pandemic. Unlike India, Bakrid celebrations will be observed on July 20 in Saudi Arabia. Also known as Eid al-Adha, it is of great significance in Islam. It translates as ‘Festival of Sacrifice’.
The southern state of Kerala will be celebrating Bakrid without following covid curbs. As the state government has made a special announcement for the Bakrid festival, this move has invited the Supreme Court’s criticism.
The Kerala government has issued new guidelines for the Bakrid celebrations. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has allowed the opening of shops, that too in those areas which are under triple lockdown.
Supreme Court’s Take on Bakrid Relaxations
A two-judge bench of Justices RF Nariman and BR Gavai observed that “Alarming state of affairs to give in to pressure tactics. Pressure hood of any manner cannot infringe upon the most precious right of right to life. If any untoward incident takes place due to this relaxation, public can bring to our notice and action will be taken accordingly”.
The statement came after Kerala announced a three-day relaxation of covid norms for Bakrid. Regardless of the statement, the government’s guidelines will be followed. Kerala has defended its resolution by saying that the restrictions were relaxed since June 15. Furthermore, this step would empower those traders who can get benefit from Bakrid festivities.
CM Pinarayi Vijayan had announced the guidelines during a press conference held on July 17. He asserted that taking into account the Bakrid (Eid al-Adha) coming on July 21, textiles, footwear shops, jewellery, fancy stores, shops related to home appliances and electronic items, all types of repairing shops and shops selling essential items shall be allowed to open from July 18 to July 20. The timings will be 7 am to 8 pm in category A, B and C areas. However, in D category areas, these shops can open only on July 19. The areas have been classified on the basis of test positivity rate.
The Kerala government isn’t paying attention to the continuous warnings by Indian Medical Association. Was easing lockdown a good decision? Only upcoming days could answer.