CHENNAI: With Ramzan fasting expected to begin in Tamil Nadu on July 9 or 10, chief minister J Jayalalithaa has directed that 4,000 tonnes of rice be supplied to mosques across the state to help in the preparation of meals ( nonbu kanji ) to break the fast during the 30-day period.

In an official statement, Jayalalithaa said an order to this effect was passed during her previous regime and had been quite popular among Muslims. “I have received representations from Muslims to supply rice just like in the past,” she said. “So, I have ordered the supply of rice to mosques to prepare meals without any hassle.”

The scheme will benefit nearly 3,000 mosques. Jayalalithaa said district collectors had been advised to supply bulk quantity, after checking the requirements of the mosques.

M Mohammed Sikkandar, secretary of the Purasawalkam Masjid and member of the Tamil Nadu Wakf Board, said the demand for rice was only increasing every year and the government’s assistance was welcome. “We wish the quality of raw rice is better,” he said.

Moulana Anwar Badusha of Perambur mosque said the government had to ensure the required quantity of rice reached the mosques without any inconvenience. Mosques had already begun receiving rice from donors and the government aid would help manage the demand.

The AIADMK government had started the scheme during its earlier tenure (2001-06).

