Mirwaiz Muhammad Umar Farooq has expressed deep concern over what he called the growing normalisation of restrictions on religious rights in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at Srinagar’s Jama Masjid after being released from house detention, the Kashmir chief cleric said repeated curbs on religious gatherings were deeply troubling. He alleged that he was confined to prevent him from visiting the family of a 12-year-old girl who was allegedly raped and murdered in Budgam district. Restrictions were also extended during Id-ul-Zuha, with Srinagar’s historic Idgah grounds and Jama Masjid sealed, preventing traditional congregational prayers.
Addressing worshippers, the Mirwaiz said the repeated denial of Id prayers at Idgah and Jama Masjid was not normal and warned that future generations might begin to see such restrictions as acceptable. He criticised the silence of elected representatives, saying they cannot remain mere spectators when people’s rights and institutions are under pressure. According to him, institutions are truly tested when fundamental freedoms and public sentiments are at stake.
The Mirwaiz further said the issue concerns the religious, cultural and historical identity of the people of Kashmir. He urged the community to respond with dignity and preserve its traditions despite growing restrictions. At the same time, he called on people not to lose hope, saying Kashmir’s institutions have survived difficult times because people continued to keep faith alive in their hearts.
