Ensure proper arrangements for Holi, Shab-e-Barat: UP Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak

LUCKNOW: Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak on Friday directed officials to ensure that Holi celebrations and Shab-e-Barat are held peacefully in the state capital.

This year, Holika Dahan and Shab-e-Barat (where Muslims pay respects to their ancestors) will fall on March 7.

After a review meeting with officials of district administration and Maulana Khalid Rashid Farangi Mahali, chairperson of Islamic Center of India, Pathak asked police, municipal corporation and Lesa to ensure that all arrangements regarding security, cleanliness, power and water are completed before the end of this week.

The health department has also been asked to make necessary arrangements for ambulances, doctors and nursing staff for any kind of emergency.

Mahali said: "Lucknow is known for its Ganga-Jamuni culture and last year when Holi and Shab-e-Barat were on the same day, everyone showed great understanding and the day went off peacefully."

"I request all Muslims to visit graveyards after 5 pm on the day," Deputy CM further added.