Srinagar, In Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), authorities have once again prevented the holding of Juma prayers at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar. This action marks the ninth consecutive week that such religious gatherings have been disallowed. Senior All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq continues to be under house arrest.

According to Kashmir Media Service, Anjuman Auqaf of Jamia Masjid issued a statement saying that the police authorities had barred the Anjuman from opening the mosque’s gates for Juma prayers. The decision to prevent the congregation is reportedly due to fears that the gatherings could evolve into anti-India and anti-Israel demonstrations.

The Anjuman condemned the repeated closure of Jamia Masjid and the continued house detention of Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, characterizing these actions as indicative of the authorities’ frustration. The statement reflects broader concerns over restrictions on religious freedoms and political expression in the region.

Additionally, noted religious scholar Agha Syed Mohammad Hadi Al-Moosvi was also placed under house detention, preventing him from performing his religious duties. The local administration’s actions have also denied people the right to attend religious services at Imambargah in Bemina for the ninth consecutive Friday.

Agha Syed Mohammad Hadi voiced that such hostile actions from the administration would not dampen the people’s sentiments for al-Quds and its people, instead strengthening their resolve.

The ongoing situation in IIOJK continues to draw attention to issues of religious freedom and human rights in the region.