UP Muslim panchayat bans 'nikah' at hotels: DJs, fireworks, salami restricted; violators to face Rs 11,000 fine

AGRA: In a move to curb extravagance and encourage austerity at weddings, a ‘panchayat' by the Muslim community in Kosi Kalan, a town in Mathura, unanimously decided to ban ‘nikah' (marriage) ceremonies at hotels, guest houses or marriage halls and placed strict restrictions on DJ music, fireworks and ‘salami' (gift) ritual to grooms. Those flouting the panchayat's order will be counselled and repeated violations will invite a fine of Rs 11,000.‘Nikah' in this town will be solemnised only in mosques, said Meenuddin, a member of the panchayat. He added that wedding feasts and other arrangements will continue to be held at hotels, guest houses and marriage venues. "The panchayat took the steps after a row recently erupted in the area when the DJ music was played loudly on the road at a wedding procession with people dancing," Jibran Hussain, an advocate who attended the gathering, told TOI on Tuesday. He added that in Islam, ‘nikah' is always meant to be simple and lavish spendings is strongly discouraged."This is the first time our community here has spoken out so strongly against social evils linked to weddings. The panchayat was held by the Eidgah committee at Sarai Nikasa in Delhi Gate area on Dec 26. It was attended by residents from the town and its surrounding areas," said Meenuddin.This would help maintain equality among all sections of the Muslim community as a lot of families find it very difficult to spend too much money on weddings. It will also prevent nuisance, such as competition over spendings in neighbourhoods, and essentially maintain harmony, Meenuddin pointed out."DJ music and fireworks in wedding processions often create disputes and fights in localities, which harm unity and brotherhood. These steps will help restore simplicity and harmony in society," said committee secretary Mehraraj Qureshi.Qureshi added, "If a DJ or band is found playing at any wedding function — on either the bride's or groom's side — local clerics or qazis invited from outside will not solemnise the ‘nikah', as decided in the panchayat."