Fri Jul 04 13:06:18 UTC 2025: **Karnataka Muharram Bans Spark Outrage Among Intellectuals**
**Kalaburagi/Belagavi, July 4, 2025** – A decision by district administrations in Ballari and Raichur to ban Muharram celebrations in several villages due to concerns over potential law and order issues has drawn sharp criticism from intellectuals, writers, and cultural figures. They argue that the festival, known for promoting communal harmony, should be supported rather than suppressed.
Authorities in Ballari and Raichur have cited past incidents of clashes during Muharram as justification for imposing prohibitory orders, restricting public gatherings, processions, and the erection of symbolic structures in sensitive areas. Deputy Commissioners Prashant Kumar Mishra and K. Nitish issued the orders under the Karnataka Police Act, 1963, based on intelligence reports indicating potential tensions.
Mr. Mishra defended the decision, stating that similar restrictions have been imposed in the past to maintain peace in sensitive areas. He emphasized that the measures are precautionary and not a blanket prohibition of Muharram observances.
However, critics argue that the bans are a regressive step that punishes entire communities for the actions of a few. They highlight that Muharram is widely celebrated with communal harmony in Kalyana Karnataka, with Hindus and Muslims participating together. They suggest that the government should focus on addressing troublemakers rather than restricting cultural practices that foster unity.
“The administration should focus on identifying and acting against troublemakers, rather than restricting religious or cultural practices that have long fostered unity,” said Channabasava, a resident of Janekal.
Writer Ladai Basu even alleged that such orders indicate the growing influence of right-wing elements within the government, accusing officers of disturbing harmony by crafting the intelligence inputs that lead to such bans.
Sabiha Bhoomi Gowda, former Vice-Chancellor of Karnataka State Akkamahadevi Women’s University, and Dadasaheb S. Chougale, a theatre personality, emphasized the festival’s cultural significance and its role in binding communities together. Yallappa Himmadi, chairman of the Basavaraj Kattimani trust spoke of Muharram celebrations in villages with no Muslims families across northern Karnataka.
Thinker Rahamat Tarikere, who has studied Muharram traditions, said festivals like Muharram were tools for reconciliation and friendship between communities and families and festivals like Muharram should be promoted to reduce hatred.
The controversy raises questions about the balance between maintaining law and order and preserving cultural and religious traditions, particularly in regions known for communal harmony.
First Piper 