Srinagar: Authorities in Srinagar have once again disallowed Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the historic Jamia Masjid for the 5th consecutive year, triggering condemnation from religious leaders and local communities.
The Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid has strongly criticised this decision, denouncing it as an infringement on religious freedom and a disregard for sacred traditions. The denial of access to the mosque during significant occasions of spiritual importance, such as Eid, has deepened feelings of alienation and grievance among the faithful, the Auqaf said.
Reports indicate that police personnel closed the gates of Jamia after Fajar prayers this morning, informing the Anjuman Auqaf that Eid prayers scheduled for 9:30am would not be permitted at the site.
Additionally, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a prominent religious leader, was reportedly placed under house arrest early today.
The ongoing restrictions on religious gatherings at Jamia Masjid continue to be a point of contention, highlighting tensions surrounding religious rights and freedoms in the region.
This is for the fifth straight year since the abrogation of JK’s special status that Eid prayers were not allowed at the historic mosque.
“After Fajar (morning) prayers today police personnel closed the gates of Jama Masjid Srinagar and informed the Auqaf that Eid Ul Fitr prayers scheduled for 9.30 am were not being permitted at Jama Masjid today,” a statement issued by the Auqaf said.