Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Barred from Friday Prayers in Srinagar for Second Consecutive Week

Islamabad, In a continued restriction on religious freedoms, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a senior leader of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, was again prevented from attending Friday prayers at the central Jama Masjid in Srinagar, Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

According to Kashmir Media Service, the Anjuman Auqaf of Jamia Masjid, Srinagar, expressed distress over the authorities’ decision to bar Mirwaiz from delivering his sermon for the second consecutive week. The statement highlighted that not only was Mirwaiz’s movement restricted since the previous Friday, but access to him by journalists and media personnel was also obstructed.

The community’s frustration is growing, with hopes pinned on an upcoming high court hearing scheduled for May 25, which is anticipated to address Mirwaiz’s ongoing house arrest and potentially grant the relief sought by his supporters and the local community.