SRINAGAR: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Kashmir’s chief cleric, expressed deep dismay over authorities’ decision to prohibit observances of key religious events including Jumatul Vida, Shab-e-Qadr, and Eid prayers at the Jama mosque.
He criticized the contradiction between optimistic public statements about Kashmir’s situation and actions restricting religious freedom. “Every time the mosque is locked down and I am detained at home, their claims get exposed,” he stated.
Despite challenges, Mirwaiz reiterated unwavering resilience and faith. “We are disappointed but not disheartened; we have full faith in Allah,” he affirmed.
He emphasized the historical and spiritual role of the Jama Masjid’s pulpit as the reflector of truth, vowing to shed light on the state of affairs to the authorities, “whether they like it or not,” he added.
He announced that the next Friday majlis Waz and Tableegh will commence at 12:35 PM, followed by Friday prayers at 1:40 PM
