SRINAGAR: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, the head of the Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema (MMU), has condemned the alleged torture of five civilians in Kishtwar, who were reportedly detained for questioning by security forces.
Speaking at the Friday congregation at Jama Masjid Srinagar, the other day, Mirwaiz expressed grave concern over the incident, calling it a stark reminder of ongoing human rights violations in the region.
Disturbing images circulating in the media, showing severe torture marks on the victims, have intensified calls for accountability. Mirwaiz lamented the culture of impunity surrounding such cases, stating that justice remains elusive for victims of abuse in the conflict-ridden region. He urged authorities to ensure that the inquiry ordered into the incident leads to tangible outcomes and holds the perpetrators accountable.
Mirwaiz also criticised a recent directive from a BJP-ruled state requiring Mutawalis (caretakers of religious properties) to seek approval from a state-appointed Waqf head before delivering Friday sermons. He termed the directive a blatant infringement on the religious rights and freedoms of the Muslim community.
“This directive reveals the real intentions behind the Waqf Amendment Bill introduced by the BJP in Parliament,” Mirwaiz asserted. “State control over religious practices is unacceptable and will be firmly resisted by Muslims.”
He said the MMU has contacted the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) to voice its concerns about the amendments to the Waqf Act. However, despite the urgency of the matter, the MMU’s requests for dialogue have not been addressed. With reports suggesting that the Waqf Bill may soon be tabled in Parliament again, Mirwaiz urged lawmakers to refrain from passing legislation that could further marginalise the Muslim community.
The MMU reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the religious and civil rights of Muslims in Jammu and Kashmir and vowed to oppose any actions perceived as an assault on their institutions and freedoms.
