Muslims pray for peace in riot-hit Assam on occasion of Eid

Guwahati (Assam), Aug.20 (ANI): Muslims offered prayers in mosques across the nation on the occasion of Eid-Ul-Fitr, and hoped for peace and stability in riot-hit Assam.

The end of the holy month of Ramadan was declared with the sighting of moon across India on Sunday.

Guwahati-based Muslim cleric Anwar Hussain said: "During the holy month of Ramadan, devotees offer prayers wholeheartedly. We merely want that people should unite, and for the sake of humanity, should give up violence and live in peace. This will be beneficial for everyone, for humanity and the entire nation."

Nearly 80 people were killed and 400,000 displaced in fighting between Muslims and mostly Hindu Bodo tribesmen in Assam in recent weeks.

The mass flight was sparked by rumours that Muslims, a big minority in predominantly Hindu India, were seeking revenge for the Assam violence.

Muslims believe Eid is not only just a time of spiritual devotion and verbal expressions of love and brotherhood, but also a time of religious unity when people from all religions and nationalities come together to share greetings.

During Ramadan, Muslims observe fast during daylight hours. Fasting has a very important place in Islam and has been made one of the fundamental tenets of the faith.

Eid-Ul-Fitr was also celebrated with great zeal in West Bengal's Siliguri district.

The head cleric of the mosque, Maulana Anwar-ul-Haq, expressed sorrow over the recent ethnic clashes, and hoped that this festival would restore peace in the country.

Indian cricketer Irfan Khan Pathan greeted the entire nation on the occasion of Eid and also expressed sympathy with the people facing the brunt of the ongoing crisis in Assam and other states.

"On this occasion of Eid, I would ask everyone to spread peace and happiness," said Pathan.

Personnel of the Rapid Action Force were deployed in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, with an aim to ensure security and safety for the devotees.

"I would like to congratulate the people of the city on the occasion of Eid and I would also like to express gratitude towards them that they have cooperated in maintaining peace in the city. Arrangements have been made in order to ensure safety and security. State and police officials have been on alert. The prayers have been offered peacefully. We have also deployed personnel of the Rapid Action Force and policemen," said District Magistrate, Anil Kumar.

Muslim devotees also congregated and paid obeisance at mosques in Kolkata.(ANI)