The Istiqlal Mosque Management Agency (BPPMI) straightened the information circulating on social media regarding the closing of the gate for visitors the night before the 212 Action.
According to the Secretary of BPPMI KH Rusli Effendi, since 2002, his party has enforced a rule to close all gates every night at 21.30 WIB and reopen them at 03.40 WIB before the Fajr prayer.
"All pilgrims are not allowed to stay in the mosque area except under certain conditions and with permission from the security forces and the leadership of BPPMI," said Rusli in Jakarta, Tuesday (21/2).
Regarding the conditions at night from 20 to the early hours of February 21, the security of the Istiqlal Mosque had explained to the congregation (participants of the 212 action) who had gathered in the mosque's courtyard about the procedure. "They understand and are willing to leave the mosque area," he said.
According to Rusli, BPPMI did not receive notification from any party regarding the plans for the congregation to stay overnight as in the previous conditions when Muslims held 411, 212 or 112 actions. There was also no special communication from the authorities regarding this matter.
"The Istiqlal Mosque always serves the people and strives for national unity and unity and always maintains the comfort of worship. We urge all Muslims not to be influenced by news that cannot be accounted for," he concluded.