Dr. Andrabi says my statement being misquoted, Nazr-o-Niyaz, Tahri, Bird Feeding can be distributed at designated sheds outside shrines; move aimed at preventing disrespect of food
Srinagar, Sep 13: Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board Chairperson Dr Darakhshan Andrabi has clarified that Tahri has not been completely banned at shrines, saying the restriction applies only to bringing and distributing it inside the Dargah premises.
According to the news agency JKNS speaking about the viral statement claiming that Tahri had been banned, Andrabi said the practice of Nazr-o-Niyaz and distribution of Tahrir remains part of people’s faith and culture.
“My statement is being misquoted by some media houses,” she said.
“Tahri will not be brought into the premises. Rest, wherever we have made sheds, bring it there. Bring Nazr-o-Niyaz. Bring Tahri. Bring whatever you want,” Andrabi said.
She said the decision was taken to prevent the disrespect of food inside the Dargah premises, where cleanliness and sanctity need to be maintained.
Andrabi said the Waqf Board has constructed separate sheds and designated spaces outside the Dargah premises where devotees can bring and distribute Tahrir, Nazr-o-Niyaz and other offerings.
“We want to go to those premises that we have newly constructed, from the premises to the gate, so that there is equality of belief, and there is no disrespect of rizq, and everyone gets this tabaruk,” she said.
Clarifying the viral claim that Tahri had been completely prohibited, Andrabi said, “Yes, it has been banned. But inside premises only, that we will not allow disrespect of rizq in the premises of the Dargah.”
She, however, clarified that devotees can bring Tahri and other offerings to the designated areas outside the shrine premises.
“Even bird feeding is not banned, however my request to people is that we must avoid it inside premises,” She said
“Bring as much as you want. Bring whatever you want,” Andrabi said, adding that the Waqf Board is making arrangements to facilitate devotees while maintaining cleanliness and the sanctity of the shrines.
She also referred to instances of disorder and disrespect involving food distribution at shrine premises and said the restrictions were aimed at preventing such incidents and ensuring the safety of devotees.
Andrabi further appealed to people to cooperate with the Waqf Board in maintaining the cleanliness and beauty of the shrines.
“I work so hard day and night, so that my Dargahs remain beautiful,” she said.
The Waqf Chairperson reiterated that the viral claim that Tahri has been completely banned was incorrect, stressing that Tahri can be brought and distributed at the designated sheds outside the Dargah premises. (JKNS)
