SRINAGAR: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday alleged that Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was placed under house arrest on Eid-ul-Adha, preventing him from offering congregational prayers at Srinagar’s Jamia Masjid.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Mufti, speaking to reporters after offering Eid prayers at the Hazratbal shrine in Srinagar, stated that the cleric was also prevented from travelling to Budgam the previous day. She further elaborated, “Yesterday he was prevented from going to Budgam. Today he was stopped from reaching Jamia Masjid where he intended to pray.”
The PDP chief criticised the restrictions imposed on major religious gatherings. She noted that permission for Eid prayers at Eidgah and Jamia Masjid in Srinagar was denied for the current year, continuing a trend observed over the past eight years. The continuity of these restrictions has become a significant point of concern for political and religious groups in the region.
Mufti also voiced concerns regarding undertrial prisoners hailing from Jammu and Kashmir. She alleged that many individuals are undergoing prolonged detention without any discernible legal resolution. The PDP president highlighted the plight of families affected by these detentions, stating, “Thousands of our people are under trial in jail without any legal action. They are separated from their parents. Many parents have passed away.” This situation points to a broader issue of judicial processes and their impact on families within the Union Territory.
Referring to recent developments in Budgam, she remarked that Eid was being observed under challenging circumstances. “It is a pity. This Eid is being celebrated with a heavy heart,” Mufti said, underscoring the sentiment of unease that accompanied the religious festival for many in the area. The PDP president’s statements bring to the forefront issues of religious freedom and the legal status of undertrial prisoners in Jammu and Kashmir.
The allegations made by Mehbooba Mufti highlight ongoing political and social discussions within Jammu and Kashmir concerning civil liberties and religious observances. The denial of permissions for congregational prayers and the prolonged detention of undertrial prisoners are issues that have drawn considerable attention and critique from various sections of society and political parties. The PDP’s stance reflects a broader concern about governance and the adherence to fundamental rights within the Union Territory, particularly during significant religious occasions.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
