Pakistan lifts limit on congregational prayers as Ramadan approaches.

Pakistan lifts limit on Congregational prayers as Ramadan approaches.

Islamabad: congregational prayers (Bajammat Namaz) for Friday prayer (Namaz-e-Jumma) and Taraweeh have been allowed in mosques and Imam Bargahs. President Arif Alwi's meeting with the Ulama agreed on 20 points:

President Arif Alwi told media after the meeting of Ulma Mashaykh that it is hoped that precautionary measures will be taken in mosques. Yes, A policy must be made in Holy Ramadan this year. The following are 20 points to be decided in the government and the Ulma:

1. There would be no carpets in mosques imam bargahs. People would be encouraged to bring their own prayer mats
 will not have rugs, there will be prayers on the floor.

2.Social distancing would be observed.

3. People would be advised to refrain from talking and discussions in mosques.

4.Mosques which have compounds would hold prayers outside rather than inside the building.

5. elderly and sick people would not go to mosque.

6. Committees would be formed to ensure preventive steps are followed.

7.Ablution should be perform at home.

8. If would be necessary to wear mask at mosques.

9.No handshakes and hugs would be allowed.

10. Worshipers would be refrain from touching their faces.

11. Taraweeh preparations would be made only in mosques premises, not on roads/ sidewalks.

12. People would be encouraged to offer Taraweeh at home.

13. Mosque floor would be washed with chlorine disinfectants. 

14. Prayers mats would also be disinfected with chlorine water.

15. Congregational rows would be formed with a 6 ft distance be between worshipers.

16. People would be encouraged to AItikaf at home.

17. No preparations of Sehri and Iftaar would be made in mosques to avoid overcrowding.

18. Mosques administrations would remain in contact with local police administration and cooperate with them.

19. Mosques administration and local police would be asked to ensure that social distancing is maintained during prayers.

20. Government could review and change any part of its policy on mosques in Ramadan if it felt these measures were not being followed or the rise of cases was exponential.

President Arif Alwi said that the principles of hygiene should be taken with worship. In the current situation, consensus in the nation is very important. A policy should be made in Ramadan this year.