Srinagar, September 18: Special prayers for global peace and an end to suffering in conflict-stricken regions were offered at the historic Jama Masjid in Srinagar on Friday. The congregation raised their hands in supplication, praying for mercy, justice, and relief for those affected by war.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq, addressing the Friday congregation, also appealed for public support and active participation in the social reform initiatives recently launched by the Mutahida Majlis-e-Ulema Jammu & Kashmir (MMU). He emphasized the need for collective action to address pressing societal challenges.
During his address, the Mirwaiz highlighted the outcomes of a recent Ulema conference where scholars from diverse backgrounds deliberated on critical issues facing society. These included the rising concerns of drug addiction, suicides, emotional distress among youth, the detrimental impact of social media misuse, the erosion of family bonds, environmental degradation, and the imperative to foster greater community harmony.
Dr. Farooq stressed that resolutions and discussions alone are insufficient to enact meaningful change. He asserted that effective reform necessitates active public involvement, translating concern and dialogue into practical actions within families, neighbourhoods, and communities. Quoting a verse from the Quran, he underscored that societal transformation begins from within, urging that individuals and communities should not perpetually wait for external actors to initiate change.
The Mirwaiz called for a collective approach involving reflection and action, assigning roles to Ulema, parents, youth, mosques, madrasas, and the wider community. He articulated that social reform must be viewed as a shared responsibility. To ensure sustained attention on matters affecting society, he announced that common social issues would be regularly addressed in Friday sermons across participating mosques.
He urged the congregation to support these reform efforts and to carry the discussions forward within their homes and communities. The Mirwaiz also reiterated the sacred trust (Amanah) of the Mimbar (pulpit), stating it should be utilized to guide people, foster unity, promote mutual respect, and address genuine societal concerns rather than exacerbating sectarian divisions.
Dr. Farooq further emphasized that lasting change is contingent upon the active participation of individuals in the reform process and their willingness to take responsibility for the betterment of their immediate surroundings and broader communities. He also shared updates on his recent meetings with Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. During these interactions, he conveyed solidarity with the people of Iran and discussed the deep historical, cultural, and religious ties shared between Kashmir and Iran. The Mirwaiz noted the Iranian leadership’s expressed interest in visiting Kashmir and extended a formal invitation for them to do so.
❤️ Support Independent Journalism
Your contribution keeps our reporting free, fearless, and accessible to everyone.
Or make a one-time donation
Secure via Razorpay • 12 monthly payments • Cancel anytime before next cycle
(We don't allow anyone to copy content. For Copyright or Use of Content related questions, visit here.)
The Chenab Times News Desk
