SRINAGAR: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq on Sunday laid the foundation stone for the reconstruction of Masjid Bilal in Srinagar’s Chanpora locality, emphasising the timeless role of mosques as centres of unity, moral guidance, and social reform in Muslim society.
Addressing a gathering at the site, Mirwaiz said mosques are not just places of worship, but symbols of Islamic unity where the call to prayer brings together all believers, irrespective of sect or background. “Masjids should not be divided along sectarian lines. They belong to Allah and must remain open to all,” he said, urging the community to uphold inclusivity and mutual respect.
He encouraged followers to adhere sincerely to their own maslak (school of thought) without criticising others. “We must not allow those who wish to sow sectarian discord to destroy our unity. The strength of the Ummah lies in its togetherness,” he said, calling for a spirit of tolerance and cohesion.
Mirwaiz strongly reiterated that any form of disrespect towards the Sahaba cannot be accepted and that reverence for both the Sahaba and the Ahl al-Bayt is a shared tenet of Islamic belief that binds the Muslim community. “These bonds are essential for maintaining unity and love among us,” he said.
Welcoming the decision to include a dedicated women’s section in the new mosque structure, Mirwaiz said this was a positive and inclusive step. He also called upon mosque committees to engage more actively with youth. “Our mosques must guide the younger generation spiritually and involve them in community-building and moral development,” he said.
Expressing concern over growing social challenges, including drug abuse, disunity and declining moral values, Mirwaiz said mosques should evolve into vibrant spaces where committees initiate awareness, sports, and welfare programmes to address such issues holistically. He also appealed for the promotion of simple and dignified Nikah ceremonies to help reduce the burden of excessive wedding expenses.
Praying for the successful completion of the reconstruction project, Mirwaiz hoped that Masjid Bilal would emerge as a beacon of unity, learning, and moral reform in the area.
