Srinagar: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq has expressed deep worry about the growing acceptance of restrictions on religious rights in Kashmir. In his Friday sermon at Jama Masjid, he warned that treating abnormal restrictions as normal is a serious threat to society.
Mirwaiz pointed out that for the eighth year in a row, Eid prayers were not allowed at the historic Eidgah and Jama Masjid. While this caused disappointment, he said the bigger problem is that people are slowly getting used to these limits.
What Mirwaiz Said
“The greatest danger to any society is when abnormal things begin to appear normal,” Mirwaiz told the gathering.
He explained that historic places of worship staying closed on important days should not feel ordinary. “There is nothing normal about a community being separated from traditions that have defined its religious life for centuries,” he added.
Mirwaiz also questioned the silence around these issues. He said while many people face restrictions on speaking freely, complete silence is not the answer.
Strong Message to Elected Government
Mirwaiz directly addressed the elected government, saying it cannot remain “silent spectators” when people’s rights and religious institutions are under pressure.
He said those elected by the people have a basic duty to raise their voice, especially when the religious sentiments of the majority are affected. Staying quiet while enjoying power is not acceptable, he remarked.
A Question for the People
Mirwaiz asked the people to think seriously about the future. He said repeated restrictions raise a bigger question: Will the religious and cultural identity of Kashmiris be respected, or will it slowly fade away?
He urged everyone to find ways to protect their faith, traditions, and collective future while maintaining dignity.
At the same time, Mirwaiz asked people not to lose hope. He reminded them that faith gives strength even in tough times, and Kashmir’s history shows that institutions survive when people keep them alive in their hearts.
Why This Matters
This statement comes at a time when many in Kashmir feel their religious practices and institutions are facing increasing challenges. Mirwaiz’s words highlight the tension between security measures and people’s right to worship freely at their historic sites.
He ended his address with prayers for wisdom and strength to preserve faith and values.