There are still no laws set in place which can help curb unnecessary use of fireworks on Shab-e-Barat
KARACHI: Shab-e-Barat is known as the night for forgiveness. In the Arab world, it is referred to as Laylat al-Bara’at. This is why the night is spent in asking for Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. Muslims are encouraged to offer prayers and prostrate in front of the Lord. Another reason for the importance of the night of Barat is the birth of the last Imam.
On Shab-e-Barat where people are busy in offering prayers and fasting, while on the other hand others, due to ignorance, light fireworks. Fireworks can potentially cause injuries. They cause air pollution, noise pollution and disturb the ill and elderly members of society. The next morning streets and roads are polluted. Youngsters, instead of praying and fasting, light up dangerous fireworks while those selling it are making earning their profit from it without considering the dangers.
Considering the unnecessary use of fireworks on the night of Barat there are still no laws set in place which can help curb such activities. The banning of fireworks is really important because it portrays the wrong idea and concept of this big night.
I would like to request the government of Pakistan to take serious action against violators in order to prevent accidents and loss of life. Police should also take action against dealers involved in the business of fireworks and firecrackers. People should consider it as a night of mercy, happiness and a peaceful celebration.
Dua Sheikh
Published in The Express Tribune, March 11th, 2020.
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