Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has strongly criticised the continued restrictions on Eid congregational prayers at the historic Eidgah Srinagar and Jama Masjid Srinagar, saying Muslims in Kashmir have been denied the right to offer Eid prayers at these important religious places for the eighth consecutive year.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
“Eid Marked by Restrictions and Locked Gates”
In a post on X, Mirwaiz said he was also placed under house arrest ahead of Eid-ul-Azha prayers.
He stated that instead of celebrations, people in Kashmir were being met with barricades, restrictions, locked gates and intimidation on one of the holiest occasions for Muslims.
According to him, these measures deeply hurt public sentiments and affect the region’s religious and cultural life.
“Assault on Religious Identity”
Mirwaiz described the restrictions as more than just administrative action, calling them a systematic assault on religious identity, dignity and fundamental rights.
He said preventing people from gathering for Eid prayers at historic religious sites damages centuries-old traditions connected to Kashmir’s spiritual heritage.
Concern for Younger Generation
Expressing concern about the long-term impact, Mirwaiz said many children in Kashmir are growing up without witnessing the traditional Eid prayers and festivities at Eidgah.
He said an entire generation is being deprived of memories and experiences that shaped the collective religious and cultural life of Kashmir for decades.
“Attachment to Religious Institutions Will Remain”
The Mirwaiz further stated that no restrictions or use of force can weaken the emotional and spiritual attachment people have with their religious institutions.
He stressed that the bond between Kashmiris and their religious places remains strong despite repeated restrictions.