Srinagar, The All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) has voiced its strong disapproval over the repeated hindrances to Juma prayers at Jamia Masjid Srinagar and the continued house arrest of senior APHC leader, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

According to a news release by Kashmir Media Service, the APHC spokesman shared in a Srinagar statement that this marks the third consecutive Friday where prayers at the Jamia Masjid Srinagar were obstructed, and that Mirwaiz was placed under house arrest for the third successive Friday. These consistent impediments, he mentioned, draw attention to the prevailing conditions in IIOJK and its purported state of normalcy.

The spokesman relayed that the authorities have yet to provide an explanation for these actions. Speculating on a potential reason, he posed that if these restrictions stem from concerns about Kashmiris expressing their solidarity with the suffering Palestinian populace amidst Israeli actions, such a show of support remains unwavering, irrespective of imposed bans or restrictions.

Drawing parallels between the experiences of Kashmiris and Palestinians, the spokesman emphasized that the Kashmiri people, known for their empathy, will consistently stand by the Palestinians’ rightful claims to their land and lives. Addressing the ongoing conflict, he lamented the devastation in Gaza, including the loss of young lives and the destruction of infrastructure. He also critically noted the passive or supportive stances of entities that often champion human rights and freedoms.

In closing, the spokesman remarked that war seldom results in peace, instead fostering greater distrust and affliction. He concluded with a prayer, hoping for a resolution that would alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people and restore their rights.