Govt. slammed for last-minute scrapping of Friday's Bakrid holiday
The Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) and several Muslim organisations have protested against the government decision to revoke the Bakrid holiday on Friday. The government has shifted the holiday to Saturday as Muslims in the State are celebrating Bakrid on Saturday.
IUML State general secretary P.M.A. Salam has demanded that the government declare a separate holiday on Saturday rather than scrapping the previously announced holiday on Friday.
Mr. Salam pointed out that Friday would be of significance too, as Muslims celebrating Bakrid on Saturday would be fasting on Friday, making it essential to retain the holiday on both days.
IUML district president Syed Abbasali Shihab Thangal and Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) working president A.P. Anil Kumar too demanded that the government change its decision to revoke Friday's holiday.
Wisdom Islamic Organisation general secretary T.K. Ashraf too criticised the government move saying that it would put many professionals in difficulty.
'We have been demanding at least three days holidays for two Id celebrations. If not possible, at least having two days off will allow those working in distant districts to travel home, celebrate Id and return to work,' he said.
Mr. Ashraf expressed concerns that the government's last-minute decision to revoke the declared holiday on Friday would be seen as disregard for the Muslim community's celebrations, particularly since it is the day of the significant Arafa fast.
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