Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq says that he was again denied permission to offer congregational prayers at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar. The restriction comes amid frequent house arrests and security curbs by the authorities in Jammu & Kashmir. (The Economic Times)
Mirwaiz described the denial as yet another act of infringement on religious freedom. He contended that while political rights are increasingly restrained in the Valley, religious practice too is being limited. (The Economic Times)
While authorities have often cited security concerns, the mosque managing body and political leaders have condemned the recurring denial. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called the incident “shameful”, reminding that Article 25 of the Indian Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, including the right to offer prayers. (Kashmir Life)
