Telangana Govt Permits Early Office Leave for Muslim Employees During Ramzan

Hyderabad: In a considerate move, the Telangana government has granted permission for Muslim employees to leave their workplaces early during the holy month of Ramzan. Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari issued an official order allowing all Muslim government employees, including teachers, contract and outsourcing staff, as well as employees in public sector undertakings, to leave their offices at 4 p.m. from March 2 to March 31.

“The government hereby permits all Muslim government employees/teachers/contract/out-sourcing/boards/corporations and public sector employees working in the state to leave their offices/schools at 4 p.m. during the holy month of Ramzan, except when their presence is required due to exigencies of service,” the order stated.

This decision acknowledges the significance of Ramzan, a sacred month observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting, prayers, and charity. It enables Muslim employees to comfortably observe their religious duties, including Iftar, the meal for breaking the fast, and special night prayers known as Taraweeh.

Special Arrangements for Ramzan

The Telangana Minorities Welfare Department is ensuring elaborate arrangements at prominent mosques, including the historic Makkah Masjid and the Shahi Masjid, to facilitate worshippers. Special prayers, including Taraweeh, will be held every night during the month.

As part of these arrangements, 2,250 kg of high-quality Khajoor (dates) will be provided to key mosques such as Makkah Masjid, Charminar, Royal Mosque in Nampally, and the Secretariat Mosque. These provisions have been arranged as per the requirements outlined by the District Minority Welfare Officer, Hyderabad.

Special Secretary to Government, Minorities Welfare Department, Tafseer Iqubal, and Director of Minorities Welfare, Yasmeen Basha, have reviewed and finalized the preparations. Additionally, permission has been granted to organize the Jalsa Youm-ul-Quran every Friday at Makkah Masjid, further enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the holy month.

Financial Support for Imams and Muezzins

In a separate development, the Telangana Waqf Board has released Rs 15.37 crore to clear the pending monthly honorarium of 10,700 imams and muezzins across the state. Each recipient receives Rs 5,000 per month, but due to financial delays, payments had been pending for four months. With the holy month approaching, the board has addressed these concerns and ensured that the funds are disbursed promptly.

This proactive approach by the Telangana government and the Waqf Board reflects their commitment to supporting the Muslim community during Ramzan, ensuring ease in religious observance and financial relief for religious leaders.