DUSHANBE, April 24, Asia-Plus - On Monday April 23, President Emomali Rahmon presided over a meeting with participation of state advisers, heads of ministers and organizations, representatives from Islamic Center and Islamic University, known researchers and lawyers to discuss regulation of traditions and rituals practiced by people in Tajikistan and preparations for a May meeting, presidential press service reported.  

Working groups reported on the results of the public opinion poll as well as study of religious traditions in Afghanistan, Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Central Asia’s states.

The president stressed that the main objective of the meeting was to discuss issues related to preventing excessive and unnecessary expenses of the population and thereby promote reduction of poverty in the country, according to presidential press service.  

Rahmon also pointed to the necessity of drafting legal documents on these issues.  At the same time, the head of state noted that it is necessary to avoid exaggerations in this subject and the legal documents should not be in contrary to the Constitution, present laws and Koran.  

The president charged the working group, comprising lawyers, to take into consideration proposals coming to president’s website when drafting the documents.  

This group is also charged to provide for strict measures of punishment, even dismissal, for officials violating the established norms regulating traditions and rituals practiced by the people in Tajikistan.