Bengaluru, Jul 31 (IANS): Karnataka Haj and Wakf board has appealed to the Muslim community to stay at home and celebrate Eid-Ul-Azha (Bakrid), considering the Covid pandemic, an official said on Friday.

"Appeal to the entire community to celebrate Eid-Ul-Azha prayers at home only," said A.B. Ibrahim, Secretary to Karnataka government.

He reminded the community that Haj itself in Saudi Arabia is being performed in a symbolic way with precautions and physical distancing.

"In Karnataka, about 1.25 lakh Covid positive cases are being and daily more than 5,000 positive cases with 80 - 100 deaths," highlighted Ibrahim.

The Secretary has also reminded that many people within the community have been infected and are under treatment.

"In solidarity with those families and in the interest of individual safety, community and in the interest of public health at large, it is hereby appealed to pray Eid Namaz at home itself," he said.

According to Ibrahim, the government has already issued orders prohibiting Eid namaz in Idgahs and open spaces.

"Wherever prayers are offered in Masjid, guidelines issued by Karnataka State Wakf Board and safety norms should be strictly followed and the Eid Namaz should be concluded before 8 a.m.," he said.

The Wakf Board has also permitted the devout to offer prayers inside mosques for Bakrid on Saturday following Covid guidelines and with restrictions.

He also called on the community to offer special dua for the wellbeing of mankind and a Covid-free world.

On Thursday, Karnataka has registered a record number of 6,128 new Covid positive cases, raising the state's tally to 1.18 lakh.