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Hindustan Times
12-07-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Ahead of July 13 Martyrs' Day, Hurriyat Conference chief put under house arrest
Ahead of Martyrs' Day on July 13, Hurriyat Conference chairman and chief cleric of Jamia Masjid Mirwaiz Molvi Umar Farooq was put under house arrest and wasn't allowed to lead Friday prayers at city's grand Jamia Masjid. Farooq asked the government to remove restrictions on him so that he can pay homage to July 13 martyrs. (PTI file photo) Farooq asked the government to remove restrictions on him so that he can pay homage to July 13 martyrs. 'Disallowed to go to Jama Masjid today, put under house arrest, fearing the mention of the martyrs of 13th July 1931 in my Friday sermon! The sacrifice of these martyrs and all the martyrs since, is etched in the collective memory of Kashmir and cannot not be undone by restrictions and bans. No living nation can forget the supreme sacrifice of life of its martyrs against tyranny and injustice,' Farooq wrote on X. He said restrictions should be removed and people be allowed to peacefully pay homage to the martyrs of July 13. 'If allowed as per our tradition, we will visit the martyrs' graveyard on July 13 after Zuhr prayers and pay homage to the revered martyrs,' he said. National Conference chief spokesman and legislator Tanvir Sadiq termed Mirwaiz's detention unfortunate. 'It's deeply unfortunate and unacceptable that @MirwaizKashmir Umar Farooq Sahab has once again been detained at home prevented from fulfilling his religious duties. Silencing a religious leader, especially a day before 13th July, dishonours not just his voice but the legacy of our martyrs,' he wrote on X. He said July 13, 1931, was a turning point in Kashmir's history a brave stand against tyranny and injustice. 'No bans or restrictions can erase the memory of that sacrifice. Kashmir will always honour its martyrs with dignity, peace, and truth.' July 13 was observed as Martyrs' Day in the erstwhile state of J&K in memory of 21 Kashmiris who were killed by the army of Dogra ruler Maharaja Hari Singh during an uprising in 1931 when the region was a princely state. Before 2019, Kashmir would observe a shutdown every year on the day in memory of the martyrs, venerated by both mainstream politicians as well as separatists.
Hindustan Times
04-07-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
‘Why not in dry state Gujarat?': Mirwaiz condemns liquor shop plan in Kashmir's Batamaloo
Hurriyat Conference chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Friday said the Jammu and Kashmir government should not allow the opening of a liquor shop in the city's Batamaloo area, threatening of protests against the move. It is an assault on our religious, cultural and societal ethos, said Mirwaiz.(PTI File) Addressing the Friday congregation at the Jamia Masjid in Nowhatta area of the city, Mirwaiz said that there was a "disturbing news" of liquor promotion in the valley. "A notice by the Batamaloo traders and business community for public information states that they are closing down shops for three days to protest the opening of a liquor shop in the area, asking the authorities to intervene and take immediate action," he added. The Hurriyat Conference chairman said "this is very disturbing and totally unacceptable to the people of Kashmir". "It is an assault on our religious, cultural and societal ethos, and a complete disregard for it, a deliberate attempt to ruin our people and our future generations. Already we are grappling with the menace of drug addiction and now the authorities are promoting liquor to further ruin people and our societal and cultural fabric," said Mirwaiz. "The authorities know fully well that J-K, being a Muslim majority state, consumption of liquor is against the tenets of Islam and against our cultural and societal values, yet it is being promoted," he added. Escalating his attack on the government, the Hurriyat Conference chairman said, "Why don't they promote it in Gujarat, which is a declared dry state. Why J&K? Hasn't tourism flourished here for decades without liquor, as this is the common ridiculous argument made?" Mirwaiz asked Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to immediately intervene and ensure that this action is stopped. "It is their duty to ensure that such proposals are nipped in the bud itself. If they fail, then the ulemas, civil society and people in general will have no option but to protest and come out against this assault," he said. The traders in Batamaloo have announced that all shops and commercial establishments would remain closed in the area for three days from Friday "as a mark of peaceful protest against the opening of a wine shop in our locality". The traders appealed to the authorities to intervene and take immediate action against the opening of the liquor shop.
India.com
26-06-2025
- India.com
History Lovers, This One's For You – Top 6 Heritage Spots In Srinagar
Srinagar is one of the most beautiful cities in Jammu and Kashmir. The history of Srinagar spans the centuries, as well as its heritage and culture. Every turn contains reminiscences of bygone times giving a feeling that you are going through time itself. The city contains many historical sites ranging from magnificent Mughal gardens to ancient temples. It will be worth examining these top historical sites that constitute the rich tapestry of Srinagar. 1. Shalimar Bagh Constructed by Emperor Jahangir in 1619, Shalimar Bagh is an architectural marvel of the Mughal era. There are terraced lawns, cascading fountains and manicured flower beds that creatively surround this garden making it very peaceful and beautiful at the same time. A tour through its lush paths gives you a glimpse into what life was like for Mughal emperors who lived here. 2. Nishat Bagh Nishat Bagh is another masterpiece built by the Mughals providing stunning views of Dal Lake and Zabarwan Mountains . This garden was constructed in 1633 by Asif Khan, empress Noor Jahan's brother , with symmetrical layouts and vibrant flower displays. It provides a perfect spot to stay away from the chaos of life. 3. Pari Mahal Located on top of Zabarwan Range, Pari Mahal or 'Palace of Fairies' is an intriguing combination Islamic style with Persian architecture. This seven-terraced garden was founded during Shah Jahan's reign in the 17th century when it used to serve as a Buddhist monastery. Nowadays it symbolises Srinagar's cultural values and provides panoramic view over the city and mountains around it. 4. Jamia Masjid With its imposing spires and intricate wooden carvings, Jamia Masjid stands as a masterpiece of Kashmiri architecture. Constructed in 1402 by Sultan Sikandar, this grand mosque showcases the rich cultural synthesis of Kashmir with elements of Persian, Central Asian and Indian styles. It is one of the largest mosques in the region with spacious courtyard and 378 wooden pillars attracting many worshippers and tourists. 5. Hari Parbat Fort Hari Parbat Fort stands majestically on top of Hari Parbat hill overlooking old Srinagar city. Its construction started during the Sikh rule but completed under Dogra's regime in the 18th century which makes this structure a historical wonder. The fort is believed to have been an ancient Hindu temple site before it later served as royal residence under Sikh and Dogra periods. 6. Hazratbal Shrine Hazratbal Shrine lies on Dal Lake bank and is regarded as one of holiest Muslim pilgrimage sites because it houses Prophet Muhammad's hair . Its white marble facade along with finely crafted wood interiors makes Hazratbal Shrine a true feast for eyes . Built during the 17th century it has become a symbol of Islamic heritage found in Jammu and attracts devotees from far and wide near its vicinity every year. Wrapping Up Srinagar represents a fusion between cultural elements from various parts of Kashmir throughout its timeless statues and buildings just like other towns. In conclusion, Srinagar bears testimony to the rich cultural dynamics that define Kashmir with its monuments and architectural wonders resonating with echoes from the past. Every single historical landmark within Srinagar has a different tale unfolding through its grandeur Mughal gardens to serene ancient temples that are part and parcel of the city's rich tapestry filled with history . As individuals get lost in these landmarks' beauty, they go through time learning about what it used to be in times gone by: thus discovering one more proof of greatness experienced by Srinagar over centuries long years before today
Hindustan Times
07-06-2025
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Eid prayers not allowed at Srinagar's Jama Masjid, Mirwaiz alleges house arrest
For the seventh year in a row, the authorities in Srinagar did not allow Eid-ul-Adha prayers at the historic Eidgah ground and Jamia Masjid in the old city on Saturday and placed Kashmir's leading cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq under house arrest. The gates of Jamia Masjid were locked early in the morning, and police were deployed outside to prevent entry. 'Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid, Srinagar, deeply regrets to inform that the authorities have once again disallowed Eid-ul-Adha prayers at the Eidgah as well as at the historic Jama Masjid in by closing the gates of the mosque and deploying police personnel outside,' the management of the historic mosque said in a statement. It said the authorities did not even permit the pre-dawn (Fajr) prayers. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq condemned the move and posted on X: 'Eid Mubarak! Yet again, Kashmir wakes up to the sad reality: no Eid prayers at Eidgah, and Jama Masjid locked down for the 7th straight year. I too have been detained at my home.' 'In a Muslim-majority region, Muslims are deprived of their fundamental right to pray -- even on their most important religious occasion celebrated across the world!' he said. 'What a shame on those who rule over us, and on those elected by the people who choose to remain silent as our rights are trampled over, again and again,' Mirwaiz said on X. After offering namaz at Hazratbal dargah on the outskirts of Srinagar, chief minister Omar Abdullah said, 'While we are celebrating Eid, unfortunately, once again, permission was denied to offer namaz in Srinagar's iconic Jama Masjid. I don't know the basis of these decisions, but we need to learn to trust our people. These are the same people who came out to protest against the Pahalgam terrorist attack. The government should think about allowing namaz at the historic Jama Masjid.' Reacting to the developments, PDP leader Iltija Mufti said: 'I want to ask the National Conference government and the lieutenant governor (Manoj Sinha) why the Mirwaiz is still being placed under house arrest when you claim everything is normal. As India's only and the largest Muslim majority state, we Kashmiris have the right to worship... More than infrastructure, we need dignity and security of life.' PDP chief and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti said: 'Unfortunately, the government, on this pious day, has denied permission to offer namaz in the Jama Masjid, and Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has been put under house arrest... I protest against the state government also, which is just watching everything and doing nothing.'
United News of India
07-06-2025
- Politics
- United News of India
Eid prayers 'not allowed' at historic Srinagar Eidgah, CM Omar criticizes move
Srinagar, June 7 (UNI) Authorities on Saturday disallowed Eid prayers at the historic Jamia Masjid in old city and also put Kashmir's chief cleric Mirwaiz Umar Farooq under house arrest, Anjuman Auqaf Jama Masjid said here. The managing committee of the Jamia mosque affairs said the authorities once again disallowed Eid-ul-Adha prayers at Eidgah Srinagar, as well as at the historic Jama Masjid Srinagar, by closing the gates of the mosque and deploying police personnel outside. Traditionally, the congregational Eid prayers are offered at Eidgah. 'Even the Fajr prayers this morning were not permitted at Jama Masjid as the gates remained locked,' the statement said, adding' Miwaiz has also been placed under house arrest.' In a post on X, Mirwaiz who is also the Hurriyat chairman said it is for the seventh year in a row that Eid prayers were disallowed at Jamia. The Eid prayers have been barred at Jama Masjid and Eidgah by the authorities since 2019. 'Eid Mubarak! Yet again, Kashmir wakes up to the sad reality: no Eid prayers at Eidgah, and Jama Masjid locked down — for the 7th straight year. I too have been detained at my home,' Mirwaiz said. 'In a Muslim-majority region, Muslims are deprived of their fundamental right to pray — even on their most important religious occasion celebrated across the world! What a shame on those who rule over us, and on those elected by the people who choose to remain silent as our rights are trampled over, again and again,' he added. The authorities didn't respond to the claims made by the Anjuman. J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he was deeply concerned about the denial of Eid prayers at Jamia Masjid. He questioned the authority of those making this decision. 'I have no information on what basis such a decision is taken. But one day we will have to trust our people. They are the same people who after the April 22 (Pahalgam terror attack) came out and expressed their anger and condemned the act. …But today, once again, the Eid prayers were not allowed at historic Jamia …I feel that the government should think again at some point,' Omar told media in Srinagar. Meanwhile, the Eid prayers were held across the valley and the largest congregation was held at Hazratbal shrine on the banks of Dal lake. Officials said Eid prayers were held peacefully across Valley. UNI MJR PRS
