Rabbis and Secular Jews in Petition War over Jerusalem Area Mall

Ten rabbis have signed a petition to boycott a mall in the Jerusalem neighborhood of Ramot because of “issues of modesty” while secular residents are organizing a demonstration in support of the shopping mall.

The petition alleges that Haredi rabbis in the Ramot area struck an agreement with the mall developers on rules concerning modesty, according to the Globes business website.

The rabbis charge that the mall owners have gone beyond the agreement on the assumption that the Haredi community in Ramot has not alternative but to use the mall for immediate necessities.

The rabbis urge a total boycott of the mall except for the pharmacy and bank.

The Jerusalem party in the municipality’s city council said it will hold a pro-mall rally on Friday.