New Delhi, May 18 (IANS): The Sharia Council of the Jamaat Islami Hind (JIH), here on Monday, urged the government to exempt the places of worship from the lockdown and allow people to do their religious practices by maintaining social distancing.

In a statement, the JIH said under the present circumstances, the Eid ul Fitr prayer should be allowed at Eidgahs, Jama Masjid and the local mosques (depending on number of people permitted). Otherwise, prayers be offered at home.

It also appealed against crowding market in the last days of Ramadan. On the day of Eid, dress in whatever clothes, old or new, are available, and avoid meeting and greeting people. "Please remember the poor, the needy on the day of Eid along with Muslim prisoners and their relatives," said Jalaluddin Umri.

The council said last Friday of Ramadan was like other Fridays and didn't have any special significance. "Under the present circumstances, if there are 4 people in the house, then they may offer the Friday prayer or the Zohar (Midday) prayer. If one is alone, he should offer the Friday prayer individually," it said.