Key points
- Mirwaiz expresses deep anguish over the restrictions
- Even during the peak of militancy in the 1990s, Eid prayers were held
- Why are Muslims being kept away from their religious places: Mirwaiz
ISLAMABAD: All Parties Hurriyat Conference senior leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has strongly condemned the Indian authorities for once again disallowing Eid prayers at Srinagar’s historic Eidgah and Jama Masjid.
He expressed deep anguish over the restrictions, stating that he has also been placed under house detention.
Taking to social media, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq highlighted that even during the peak of militancy in the 1990s, Eid prayers were held at Eidgah.
“Now, when claims of ‘normalcy’ are made daily by the authorities, why are Muslims being kept away from their religious places and practices?
What is the agenda? Is the collective identity of Kashmiri Muslims a threat to the rulers?” he questioned.
“Oppressive and authoritarian approach”
He further asserted that Eidgah and Jama Masjid belong to the people, and barring them from offering prayers at these sacred sites, especially on Eid, reflects an “oppressive and authoritarian approach” prevailing in Kashmir.
Religious restrictions in the valley have often sparked criticism from political and religious leaders, with many questioning the government’s policies concerning places of worship.
“Truth won’t be silenced”
He said the move seems part of the continuation of the policy of intimidation and disempowerment that has been followed since August 2019
According to Business Standard, the Awami Action Committee chairman previously condemned India’s decision to ban the group and the Jammu and Kashmir Ittehadul Muslimeen, saying the voice of truth may be suppressed through force but will not be silenced.
People’s Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti said India’s ban on the two groups is another blow to the political and social landscape of Kashmir and called on the Jammu and Kashmir government to intervene to stop such actions.
Farooq’s Awami Action Committee (AAC) and the Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM), led by Masroor Abbas Ansari, were banned for five years.
