Srinagar, June 23, 2023 (PPI-OT): Anjuman Auqaf of Jamia Masjid, Srinagar, has strongly denounced the continued house detention of its chief, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, since 05 August, 2019. The Anjuman Auqaf in a statement issued in Srinagar, today, deplored that the occupation authorities in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir have disallowed Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to offer Juma prayers at the mosque for 200 consecutive weeks.

It said the pain and anguish this religious repression on the Muslims of the valley has caused them is extremely unfortunate. Despite repeated appeals for his release from all sections and quarters of occupied Jammu and Kashmir and outside the authorities have denied it so far, it added. The Anjuman said that a protest was held on this in Jamia Masjid, Srinagar, today in which a large number of men and women present on the occasion strongly urged the authorities to release the Mirwaiz immediately.

On behalf of Anjuman, Imam Hai of Jamia Masjid Ahmed Syed Naqshbandi expressed deep dismay that despite repeated appeals to allow the Mirwaiz to come to the Jamia Masjid to resume his responsibilities as the Mirwaiz, the authorities are not paying any heed. He said that before the commencement of Ramadan a delegation of prominent religious leaders and scholars had sent a letter to the Lieutenant Governor, requesting for an appointment with regard to discussing the release of the Mirwaiz and other issues, but till date they have not received any reply, despite reminders.

Imam Hai asked that while the authorities are thoughtful of the sentiments associated with the annual Hindu Amarnath yatra and provide all assistance to the pilgrims for its smooth conduct which is how it should be, why are the sentiments of the Muslim community being ignored and hurt by keeping the Mirwaiz away from the Jamia Masjid.

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