DUSHANBE, December 17, Asia-Plus  -- A mass celebration of the New Year holiday is not in contrary to Tajikistan’s law on the order of observing national traditions, ceremonies and rituals, Abdurahim Kholiqov, the head of the department for regulating observing of traditions and rituals of president’s office, said.  

“The New year is a national holiday in Tajikistan, and in accordance with Article 7 of the RT Law “On Holidays”, celebration of the New Year holiday is held in accordance with legislation of the country and is not regulated by the law on order of observing traditions and rituals,” said Kholiqov, “Therefore, a number of guests in the New Year parties is not fixed.  Of course, it would be a good thing that such celebrations would be not excessive luxury and held within a reasonable range.  In my opinion, three hours are enough to celebrate the holiday with colleagues and friends." 

Mr. Kholiqov further added that Tajik courts had to date considered 24 cases of breaking the country’s law on the order of observing national traditions and rituals.  All offenders have been fined, according to him.   

We will recall that addressing a public meeting in Dushanbe on May 24 this year, President Emomali Rahmon said that Tajik citizens should hold less extravagant weddings and funerals.  Rahmon charged that many “national traditions and religious rituals, which should be held for family members and relatives, have become lavish and extravagant ceremonies."  

President Rahmon signed two laws cracking down on lavish private ceremonies on June 8, 2007.  The laws required amendments to the law on public service and the administrative code.  

            Amendments made to the administrative code set heavy fines.  Those who break the law would be fined.  The fine for ordinary citizens would be 2,000 somonis, for officials 5,000 somonis and for legal entities 10,000 somonis.