Muslims offer Eid prayers in Indian capital

By Ahmad Adil

NEW DELHI (AA) - Eid al-Fitr, the holiday marking the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, is being celebrated in India on Tuesday.

A large number of Muslim worshippers gathered at India's historic Jama Masjid (main mosque) in the capital New Delhi to offer Eid prayers.

It was the first time after two years that Eid prayers were allowed by the authorities without any COVID-19 restrictions.

"After two years, (Eid) prayers were held at the mosque today. The mosque was filled with worshippers," Mohammed Ansar ul Haq, a member of the mosque's management, told Anadolu Agency.

Since early Tuesday morning, devotees in large numbers wearing new dresses started arriving at the mosque and gathered to offer prayers.

"I went to the mosque with my family to Jamia mosque after two years," said Javid Ahmad, a local resident. "It was a great feeling to be back and be part of the Eid gatherings."

Large gatherings of Eid prayers were also witnessed in other parts of the country.

Meanwhile, communal violence was reported in the Jodhpur town of Rajasthan state after a dispute over raising religious flags ahead of Eid. The authorities suspended internet services in the area.

"Communal tension broke out again after offering namaz (prayer) at Eidgah near Jalori gate on Tuesday morning," local daily Hindustan Times said, adding that the situation was under control.