Ban imposed on worshipping in mosques due to the coronavirus pandemic has caused discontent of believers, according to CABAR.asia. At the same time, doctors and some clerics believe that these measures taken to prevent COVID-19 spread are justified.
In Tajikistan, the mosques were the first among public places to fall under the bans related to preventing the coronavirus pandemic spread. It happened on April 18, even before the authorities officially recognized the presence of COVID-19 in the country – on April 30.
Even then, some of the worshippers declared on social media the authorities’ bias and drew attention to the fact that schools, universities and shopping centers continued to work.
Some of them believe that the authorities infringe on the worshippers’ rights. They reportedly believe the ban on visiting mosques pursues other goals.
In autumn, the authorities lifted all restrictions, except for the ban on worshipping in mosques. The authorities state the ban is needed to prevent the coronavirus spread among the elderly.
At the same time, some worshippers support the ban. According to them, city mosques can still comply with sanitary requirements, but in rural areas, this is a problem.
Afshin Muqim, a spokesman for the Committee of Religion, Regulation of Traditions, Celebrations and Ceremonies under the Government of Tajikistan, told CABAR.asia analytical portal that the mosques’ opening is beyond the competence of the Committee. According to him, this issue is considered by the Standing Committee on COVID-19.
Tajik doctors mostly support the authorities’ decision. They believe that people of risk groups are better off staying at home as there is a high risk of getting infected in mosques.
Some clerics also believe that these measures taken to prevent COVID-19 spread are justified. The imam of the mosque in the city of Isfara Nasrullo Azizov says “religion, when necessary, always supports scientific conclusions.” “If it is necessary, then it is acceptable before God (it is righteous),” Azizov told CABAR.asia.
