What is the ruling on communal recitation of the Quran (khatmah), reading the Quran for the deceased, and communal campaigns of seeking forgiveness (istighfar)? And does Surah Ya-Sin have a virtue in relieving distress?

The issue of reciting the Quran and dedicating its reward to the deceased is a matter of scholarly disagreement. The preponderant opinion is that it benefits the deceased. If some individuals agree to complete a recitation (khatmah) and dedicate its reward to the deceased, it is hoped that it will benefit him. The preferred approach to avoid this dispute is for the reciter to keep the reward of his recitation for himself, while offering supplication, seeking forgiveness, and giving charity on behalf of the deceased.

There is no authentic hadith that specifies a particular surah for distress. However, the entire Quran is good, so if someone recites a surah and makes it a means to relieve his distress, it is hoped that it will benefit him. Ibn Kathir mentioned that among the characteristics of Surah Yasin is that it is not recited in a difficult matter except that Allah eases it, and that reciting it for the deceased is for the descent of mercy and to facilitate the soul's departure.

As for group campaigns of seeking forgiveness, glorification (tasbih), or remembrance (dhikr) via forums, if the intention is to remind members of these acts so they may perform them, then there is no harm in that. This is a form of cooperation in righteousness and piety.