Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Prevented from Leading Friday Prayers at Srinagar’s Jamia Masjid
Srinagar, March 14: In a move that has sparked widespread discontent, Kashmir’s chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, was once again barred from leading the congregational Friday prayers at Srinagar’s historic Jamia Masjid. Authorities placed the Mirwaiz under house detention, preventing him from delivering his sermon at the mosque in Nowhatta, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from religious and political circles.
House Detention Amid Ramzan
The Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid, the governing body of the grand mosque, expressed “deep disappointment and regret” over the continued restrictions on the Mirwaiz. The organization emphasized the significance of the Jamia Masjid as a central place of worship, particularly during the holy month of Ramzan, when thousands gather for Friday prayers seeking spiritual guidance and blessings.
“This arbitrary and unjustified move by the authorities comes at a time when the holy month of Ramzan is ongoing—a period of immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide,” the Anjuman said in a statement. “Barring the Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir from fulfilling his religious duties deeply hurts the religious sentiments of the people.”
Political Context: Ban on Awami Action Committee
The house detention follows the Union Ministry of Home Affairs’ recent decision to ban the Awami Action Committee (AAC), a political outfit led by the Mirwaiz, along with the Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM), headed by Mohammad Abbas Ansari. Both organizations, constituents of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, were outlawed under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for alleged anti-national activities and supporting terrorism.
The government accused the AAC of mobilizing funds for secessionist activities, promoting unrest, and inciting violence. The ban has been met with mixed reactions, with critics questioning its timing and implications for religious freedom in the region.
Impact on Religious Sentiments
The Anjuman Auqaf highlighted the emotional toll of the restrictions on worshippers who travel long distances to hear the Mirwaiz’s sermons. “Such restrictions, especially during the sacred month of Ramzan, are completely uncalled for and go against the principles of religious freedom,” the organization stated.
The Mirwaiz’s sermons have historically served as a source of spiritual and moral guidance for the community. Preventing him from addressing the faithful during Ramzan has been described as a “distressing and disappointing” development.
Calls for Immediate Release
The Anjuman Auqaf has demanded the immediate release of the Mirwaiz from house detention, urging authorities to allow him to carry out his religious obligations. “The faithful must not be deprived of the spiritual guidance and connection that the Mirwaiz provides,” the organization said.
Political leaders and activists have also condemned the move. Iltija Mufti, a prominent PDP leader, criticized the government for what she described as “arbitrary and unjustified curbs” on religious freedom. “This is a day of immense significance during Ramzan, and yet the government chooses to silence a religious leader,” she remarked.
Broader Implications
The continued detention of the Mirwaiz raises broader questions about the state of religious and political freedoms in Jammu and Kashmir. Critics argue that such actions undermine the region’s fragile social fabric and exacerbate tensions. The ban on the AAC and JKIM has further fueled debates about the balance between national security and civil liberties.
A Tradition Interrupted
The Jamia Masjid, an iconic symbol of Kashmir’s spiritual and cultural heritage, has long been a gathering place for people seeking solace and guidance. The restrictions on the Mirwaiz, particularly during Ramzan, mark a significant departure from the mosque’s tradition of inclusivity and open dialogue.
As the holy month continues, the faithful in Kashmir are left grappling with the absence of their spiritual leader, even as they hold on to hope for his release and the restoration of normalcy.
