The Madhya Pradesh Muslim Festival Committee has appealed to Muslim youth to stay away from Garba events for the sake of reels, likes and views.

The committee’s state president Zeeshan Rahman, known as Shanu, made the appeal in Bhopal. Sharadiya Navratri begins on October 11, when Garba events will be held with great fanfare.

He urged the youth to respect the faith and traditions of all religions and to obey the law.

“One person does something wrong, but the entire community has to bear the consequences,” he said. He asked youth to avoid controversy, conflict and provocation.

The committee clarified that the appeal is not against Garba or any religion. It said the aim is to raise awareness about responsible behaviour, religious decorum and social harmony.

The committee has written to the government and administration. It wants the appeal to reach universities, colleges, technical and medical institutions and hostels before October 11.

The appeal comes amid a debate in the state. Hindu organisations and some leaders have been raising questions about the participation of Muslim youth in Garba events.