Jammu & Kashmir
Iltija Mufti questions JK govt’s silence over Diwali celebrations at Lal Chowk, closure of Jamia Masjid
Srinagar: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Iltija Mufti has criticised the National Conference-led Jammu and Kashmir government over what she described as a disparity between the facilitation of Diwali celebrations at Srinagar’s iconic Ghanta Ghar in Lal Chowk and restrictions on Muslim congregational prayers at the historic Jamia Masjid.
Reacting to the festivities on November 8, when thousands of earthen lamps illuminated the city centre, Mufti questioned why religious celebrations could be facilitated at a prominent public landmark while Muslims continued to face restrictions on worship at one of Kashmir’s most important religious institutions.
She expressed dismay over what she termed the NC government’s silence, accusing it of normalising discrimination against Islam and Kashmiri Muslims.
Mufti said the repeated denial of access to Jamia Masjid on important Islamic occasions, and even on some Fridays, raised serious questions about religious freedom and equal treatment.
The Diwali celebrations drew large crowds, including tourists, to Lal Chowk. However, they also brought renewed attention to restrictions on congregational prayers at the mosque in Srinagar’s Nowhatta locality.
Jamia Masjid has faced repeated restrictions on congregational prayers, particularly on major Islamic occasions. On March 13, 2026, authorities disallowed Jumat-ul-Vida prayers at the mosque for the seventh consecutive year, according to Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, as reported by The Indian Express. The Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid also condemned the decision.
Earlier, on February 3, 2026, prayers on Shab-e-Barat were disallowed. In a statement, the Anjuman Auqaf said police had directed it to close the mosque gates despite preparations for the religious occasion, according to Kashmir Observer.
Similarly, on June 7, 2025, Eid-ul-Azha prayers were not permitted at Jamia Masjid and Srinagar’s Eidgah. The Anjuman Auqaf said even Fajr prayers were disallowed that morning, with the mosque remaining locked, as reported by PTI.