Pilgrim caravans on foot begin arriving at the holy Shrine of the Masooma-e-Sindh

HYDERABAD: The annual arrival of large pilgrim caravans on foot at the sacred shrine of Masooma-e-Sindh, Syeda Khadija Maham (SA), located at Agham Kot, has commenced this year earlier than usual, says a Press release.
Traditionally, thousands of men, women and children from distant areas begin their journey on foot between the 11th and 20th of Safar al-Muzaffar, covering hundreds of miles to pay homage at the shrine. However, this year the influx of devotees has started as early as the 28th of Muharram.
Despite the sanctity of these days, known disruptive elements have once again become active in attempts to disturb the peaceful environment. Complete records of such activities are in the possession of the concerned district administration.
On the second day of the arrival of these caravans, corresponding to 29th Muharram, reports surfaced of a printed pamphlet being distributed and a flex banner displayed in Agham Kot maligning the volunteer committee that has, for several years, provided free food, drinking water, and medical assistance to hundreds of thousands of visiting pilgrims. The pamphlet and banner, misleadingly, bear the name of the Sindh Ministry of Zakat, Ushr & Auqaf and the Provincial Minister of Auqaf.
It is pertinent to clarify that no official notification or directive has been issued by the Minister of Auqaf in this regard, creating a general impression that these disruptive elements may be misusing the minister’s name to lend legitimacy to their acts.
Speaking on behalf of the Azadaran Coordination Committee Hyderabad, Jam Shamshad Ali Jokhio, member of the Central Advisory Council, expressed deep concern over these malicious activities. He warned that such acts during these sensitive days could lead to serious misunderstandings and law-and-order problems, the consequences of which could be grave.
He urged the Government of Sindh and all security institutions to take immediate and serious notice of the situation. He further emphasized that the Provincial Minister of Auqaf, whose name has been misused in these activities, should promptly clarify his position and ensure that any official documentation purportedly connected with these actions is made public.
The Azadaran Coordination Committee reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and facilitating the pilgrims during these sacred days and appealed to the authorities to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all devotees.