Srinagar, August 21: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq stated on Friday that the restrictions imposed on his religious activities and attempts to prevent him from addressing congregations at significant religious sites appeared to be an integral part of the state’s policy.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that Dr. Farooq addressed the Friday congregation at the historic Jama Masjid in Srinagar. He noted that his return to the mosque followed a period of nearly two weeks during which he was reportedly barred from delivering the Friday sermon and was also denied the opportunity to address the gathering of Khwaja Digar at Naqshband Sahib.
The Mirwaiz described the ability to address the people as a divine blessing and urged for patience in the face of the imposed restrictions. He remarked, “Every opportunity to be there I counted as a blessing from Allah, as restrictions and attempts to silence the pulpit, unfortunately, seemed to be part of the state policy right now.” He further added, “It was a time to bear with patience and continue the good work, however possible.”
Dr. Farooq also elaborated on the historical significance of the Jama Masjid pulpit, highlighting its traditional role in providing religious and moral education. He stated that the pulpit has historically been used to inform people about their rights and responsibilities. Addressing those responsible for the current restrictions, he suggested they might be unaware of the pulpit’s historical context and importance.
He emphasized that the pulpit has historically served as a platform to voice the concerns and aspirations of the populace, while simultaneously promoting peaceful coexistence and advocating for minority rights. According to Dr. Farooq, the discourse from the pulpit has consistently been guided by Islamic teachings, focusing on peaceful and principled engagement.
“The manner has always been in accordance with Islamic teachings — peaceful, principled and dignified; dialogue over confrontation and issue-based over personal,” he said. Dr. Farooq affirmed that this tradition would persist whenever he is given the opportunity to address the people.
Concluding his address, he stated, “Inshallah, it will continue to do so whenever given the chance. It is the legacy of my forefathers and the shared inheritance of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.” The remarks come amidst ongoing discussions regarding religious freedoms and public assembly in the region.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
