Parents of missing children in Varanasi not to celebrate Eid

While Muslims around the world will celebrate Eid with their kids and family, Mohammed Ali-ur-Rehman, a resident of Varanasi, cannot do so on this most awaited day of the year.

By Girish Dubey

Varanasi, Oct.12 : While Muslims around the world will celebrate Eid with their kids and family, Mohammed Ali-ur-Rehman, a resident of Varanasi, cannot do so on this most awaited day of the year.

Rehman's six-year-old son Babloo was kidnapped from his doorstep nearly two years ago after he failed to pay 500,000 rupees (.5 million) ransom to the abductors. Rehman has not heard from his child ever since.

"How can I celebrate Eid when my son is missing? Nobody in my family is celebrating the festival this time. I am only concerned about the whereabouts of my child," said a distressed Rehman.

Anguished over their missing children and the local administration's inability to help them, about 14 families with missing children have decided to observe a solemn Eid this year.

Scores of children have been abducted during past two years in Varanasi, but authorities have failed to trace them. Disappointed from all quarters of help, these parents have no alternative but conduct prayers and silent protests.

The parents are being supported by a self-help group Vishal Bharat Sansthan in their endeavour to boycott the festivities.

"We are praying for the return of the missing children. It is festive occasion of Eid but, all the families who have lost their children will not celebrate Eid this year and we have also decided that we would support them," said Nazma Parveen, Administrative Officer of Vishal Bharat Organisation.

Thousands of Muslims across the world celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr meaning "the feast of breaking fast". During Ramadan, Muslims observe a month of fasting during daylight hours. Muslim clergy decide the date of Eid, on the basis of sighting of moon.

But, as preparations are on full swing in India and as festive spirits are reining high, these parents silently pray and look forward to the safe return of their kids with a hope to bring festive fervour back in their lives on this Eid.

ANI