Srinagar, Senior leader of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, was once again prevented from attending Friday prayers at Srinagar’s historic Jamia Masjid, continuing his house arrest which began on May 3.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the Anjuman Auqaf of Jamia Masjid issued a statement expressing their disapproval of the ongoing restrictions on Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who has been unable to deliver the Friday sermon or lead prayers for the past three weeks. The statement highlighted the repeated denial of his religious duties as he remains under house arrest.

The Anjuman Auqaf also organized various religious events at the Jamia Masjid, including Quran Khawni and Husn-e-Qirat, to commemorate the martyrdom anniversaries of Shaheed-e-Millat Molvi Muhammad Farooq and the Hawal Martyrs. The events saw participation from hundreds, including students from over 30 different seminaries across the valley, who competed in the Majlis-e-Quran Khwani and Qirat Competition. Winners of the competition, Qari Abdul Manan, Qari Mueenuddin, and Qari Shahid Rizwan, were awarded trophies and cash prizes.

During the event, Imam Hai Ahmed Syed Naqshbandi lamented the absence of leaders like Shaheed-e-Millat and expressed concern over Mirwaiz Umar Farooq’s continued detention, noting its impact on the community, especially during significant religious observances. The gathering concluded with a collective Fateha, praying for the higher ranks of all Kashmiri martyrs.