SRINAGAR DEC 26: Authorities in Srinagar have once again placed Mirwaiz Umar Farooq under house arrest today, preventing him from visiting the historic Jama Masjid to deliver the Friday sermon and offer congregational prayers. Despite expectations that he would also launch the Mirwaiz Foundation Calendar — an initiative aimed at celebrating shared spiritual and cultural heritage — the programme was halted by strict restrictions enforced on him.
Community members and supporters expressed deep disappointment, stating that curtailing peaceful religious activity and community gatherings is both unfortunate and unjust. They emphasized that such actions not only restrict the personal liberties of a religious leader but also impact the larger community that looks toward peaceful spiritual guidance.
Officials have not issued any clear statement regarding the reason for today’s restrictions, leaving questions about future engagements and whether this pattern of confinement will continue.
