DMP issues directive on Eid prayers at mosques

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has issued a directive for everyone to follow during this year's Eid-ul-Fitr.

Considering the urgency of the matter, Eid prayers will be performed in local mosques instead of at Eidgahs and in open spaces this year, a press release from DMP reads.

The DMP has asked mosque authorities to clean mosques, in their entirety, with disinfectant, before prayers. They have also been asked not to lay any carpets out – asking all Muslim devotees to bring their own janamaz. Devotees have been recommended not to use topi and janamaz provided by the mosque.

The devotees have been asked to perform their wudu at home and wash their hands for at least 20 seconds before coming to the mosque. They have to wear masks while inside the mosque.

The DMP has urged the mosque authorities to keep soap or hand sanitiser at the entrance of the mosque. Social distancing must be maintained while performing prayers.

The DMP has asked devotees to avoid the ritual of embracing each other or shaking hands after performing their prayers. All mosque committees have been asked to arrange separate routes for entering and exiting mosques.

In the press release, the DMP has urged everyone not to go to their relatives' houses or recreation centres, and to stay at their homes instead – considering the current state of the novel coronavirus in the country.

They have asked the people leaving Dhaka prior to Eid-ul-Fitr to lock their houses properly before leaving. The DMP suggested they keep valuable items at their relatives' houses instead of in their empty apartments.

Shopkeepers have been asked to stay in contact with nearby police stations.