Srinagar, 13-10-2023 : Amidst growing anti-Israel protests in various parts of Central Kashmir, authorities made the decision to disallow Friday congregational prayers at the historic Jamia Masjid in Srinagar. This notable move was met with concern and criticism, as it marked a significant interruption in the religious activities of the local population.
The managing body of the Anjuman Auqaf Jamia Masjid Srinagar, which oversees the administration of the mosque, stated that not only were the Friday prayers disallowed, but Chief Cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was also placed under house arrest. This measure raised eyebrows, considering that Mirwaiz Umar Farooq had recently been released from a four-year period of house detention.
While no official statement was issued regarding the mosque’s closure, insider sources revealed that the decision to disallow prayers at Jamia Masjid and place Mirwaiz under house arrest was driven by concerns related to potential anti-Israel and pro-Palestine protests. With the conflict in Gaza escalating, authorities seemed keen on preventing large-scale demonstrations that could potentially turn violent.
To maintain order and security, a substantial contingent of police officers and central armed police force personnel was deployed around the mosque, particularly in the old city and other sensitive areas. Their presence was intended to deter any protests that might arise amidst the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
The managing body of Jamia Masjid expressed its dissatisfaction with the government’s actions, denouncing the closure of the mosque and the disallowance of Friday prayers. This move was viewed as an infringement on religious rights and sparked a wave of criticism from the local community.
Meanwhile, reports from Budgam district in central Kashmir confirmed that anti-Israel and pro-Palestine protests did take place in several areas following the conclusion of congregational Friday prayers. Fortunately, these protests were described as peaceful and did not escalate into violence or conflict. The local population expressed their solidarity with the people of Palestine, demonstrating their concern and support for the ongoing situation in the Middle East.