Other Muslim majority nations imposed a lockdown long before Bangladesh, and have continued to put the safety of its citizens above all else
There is little doubt that, when it comes to the Covid-19 pandemic, plenty remains uncertain, and the world is collectively learning every day on how to best combat this deadly virus.
However, if there is something that has almost universally been agreed upon, it is that social distancing remains of paramount importance to try and curb the spread of the virus.
To that end, Gazipur City Corporation Mayor Jahangir Alam announcing that people will be free to go to their local mosques to offer prayers from the coming week is both dangerous and irresponsible, and puts lives at risk.
Such a declaration could very well set off a chain reaction, with people coming out in droves and disobeying social distancing directives, thereby putting others at a much greater risk of contracting the coronavirus. Every leader has a solemn duty to put the safety of the people above all else.
Mayor Jahangir Alam has failed to do so by deciding to open mosques during this time. Yes, it is customary during the holy month of Ramadan for worshippers to go to mosques to offer Taraweeh prayers. However, we are currently in the midst of a global pandemic.
These are extraordinary times, and the safety measures that are being taken are simply for the overall safety of the people. Other Muslim majority nations, most notably Saudi Arabia, imposed a lockdown long before Bangladesh, and have continued to put the safety of its citizens above all else.
In fact, no religion will promote endangering the lives of fellow worshippers, which is precisely what would happen if people were free to congregate at mosques or any other places of worship. Therefore, we hope the people remain safe in Gazipur, and the mayor realizes the dangerous precedent he would be setting were he to go through with his decision.
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