First phase of Biswa Ijtema begins

GAZIPUR, Jan 11 (UNB): Tens of thousands of devotees converged on the bank of the Turag river at Tongi as the first phase of Biswa Ijtema, the second largest congregation of Muslims after Hajj, formally began after Fajr prayers Friday. As in the last three years, Biswa Ijtema will be held in two phases this year with the first phase being held on January 11-13 and the second one January 18-20 at the same venue. Although the 48th version of Biswa Ijtema formally opened this morning, the biggest gathering of Tabligh Jamaat virtually started with delivering of bayans (religious sermons) by religious scholars after Maghrib prayers Thursday. The three-day congregation includes delivering sermons on the fundamental issues of Islam, Tablig, prayers for the spiritual adulation, exaltation and welfare of the Muslim Ummah. The first phase will conclude with Akheri Munajat (final prayers) before Zohr prayers tomorrow (Sunday). Meanwhile, President Zillur Rahman, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and leader of the opposition Khaleda Zia gave separate messages on the eve of Biswa Ijtema, highlighting the importance and sanctity of the event. The Prime Minister is also likely to attend the Akheri Munajat. Around 12,000 security personnel from different agencies have been posted at the venue to ensure security of the participants and smooth holding of the Ijtema. Observation towers have been set up to watch public movement while closed circuit televisions and video cameras installed at 18 entrances to the venue.