Hyderabad: The reported circulation of a notice by the police to `mutawallis' and committees of various mosques in Golconda area asking the `namaz' to be conducted at the same time is likely to snowball into a controversy with Muslims resenting the move. West Zone DCP Amit Garg is stated to have sent a notice two days ago for holding the prayers at the same time in view of the ensuing Bonalu festival. There are a dozen mosques in Golconda area where the prayers are held with a gap of 10 to 15 minutes for convenience of the people.

Interference alleged

"The police directive is not at all acceptable. There is no rationale behind it and it is a direct interference in our religious matters," said Majlis MP Asaduddin Owaisi.

He said during the last four decades there was never any problem during Bonalu. By giving such directions the police was trying to vitiate the peaceful atmosphere, Mr. Asaduddin said. However, Mr. Garg said the written note sent by the Golconda Inspector was not an instruction but only advisory in nature. "I respect religious sentiments of all people. During meetings of Maithri committees also we asked people to offer, if possible, prayers simultaneously at all mosques located along the route through which the Bonalu procession is taken out," he said.

He appealed to people to approach him if they have any objections "instead of trying to misinterpret the request from the police."

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