NASHIK: In Malegaon, Eid passed off peacefully under intense security cover on Thursday. About one lakh people offered namaaz at the Eidgah ground in the camp area of the city. Many people wore old clothes and all sported a black ribbon as a mark of protest to the blast that occurred on Monday night killing 5 persons and injuring 80.

Before the prayers began, as was decided by the Kul Jamati Tanzim, the umbrella organisation of all Muslim sects in Malegaon, a motion condemning the blast was presented. This was passed unanimously by the gathering by raising their hand in the air.
Imam Mufti Ismail who led the prayers, prayed and appealed for peace and harmony in the city. Many people prayed at other Eidgah grounds.

Although people greeted each other, the usual Eid fervour was distinctly missing. Normally, about 1.5 lakh people gather for prayers on the day of Eid-ul-fitr, but this year not as many were seen. Observers say this was the impact of the blast on Monday, which has cast a shadow of insecurity in the minds of the people.

The terror of the blast at Bhikku chowk has prevailed in the city and it was seen in the faces of the people, even that of little Ayesha. Ayesha is a friend of Farin, the 10-year-old girl who was one of the victims of the blast. Ayesha and Farin used play and loiter around together. They stayed opposite each others house in a narrow lane. On the day of Eid, Ayesha stayed home, in a state of shock, crying and asking repeatedly, "Farin kab aayegi? (When will Farin come back)". She had seen the body of Farin being brought home.

Source : DNA